Spanish Tourist Gang-Rape in Jharkhand: Three Suspects Sent to Judicial Custody Amid International Outcry

In the aftermath of the brutal gang-rape of a Spanish tourist in Dumka district, Jharkhand, three individuals arrested in connection with the heinous crime have been remanded to judicial custody. The incident occurred on March 1, with the victim and her husband camping in the Hansdiha police station area. The couple, both Spanish citizens, reported that they were attacked by seven men who raped the woman for about two hours. The police have conducted a medical test, confirming the sexual assault. The woman’s statement has been recorded under Section 164 of the CrPC.

International media, including Reuters, has extensively covered the incident, noting the couple’s Instagram account where they share their global travels, attracting almost 200,000 followers. The victims were found on the roadside, appearing beaten, and police are now searching for four additional suspects involved in the assault.

This incident has sparked international outrage, with the Spanish and Brazilian foreign ministries engaging with Indian authorities. Spain is dispatching staff to the area, and the Brazilian ministry has expressed its readiness to provide assistance. The case has brought attention to the broader issue of sexual violence in India, with foreign media citing National Crime Records Bureau data indicating nearly 90 reported rapes daily in 2022. Despite legal changes, stigmas, and low conviction rates contribute to the pervasive issue of underreporting and inadequate justice for victims of sexual violence in the country. Bollywood actor Richa Chadha expressed her condemnation, stating, “Shameful! Indians are treating foreigners like they treat their own women. Shame on our rotten society.”