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17 Feb 2026·Source: The Hindu
4 min
Social IssuesPolity & GovernanceNEWS

Hampi gang rape case: Three sentenced to death for heinous crime

Court sentences three to death for the brutal Hampi gang rape, murder.

A court in Karnataka sentenced three men to death for the gang rape of two women and the murder of a tourist near Hampi in March 2025. The convicts, Mallesh, Sai, and Sharanappa, were found guilty under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for murder, gang rape, and robbery. The victims included an Israeli traveler and a homestay owner. The court emphasized the severity of the crime against tourists, warranting the maximum penalty to maintain law and public safety.

Key Facts

1.

Three men were sentenced to death for the Hampi gang rape and murder case.

2.

The victims included an Israeli traveler and a homestay owner.

3.

The convicts were found guilty under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

4.

The incident occurred near the Tungabhadra Left Bank Canal in Sanapur.

UPSC Exam Angles

1.

GS Paper II: Social Justice - Vulnerable sections, crime against women

2.

GS Paper III: Law and Order - Criminal justice system reforms

3.

Potential for questions on criminal law amendments, judicial processes, and impact on society

In Simple Words

A court gave the death penalty to three men who committed a terrible crime in Hampi. They were found guilty of gang raping two women and killing a tourist. This shows that the legal system takes such brutal acts very seriously.

India Angle

In India, safety for tourists, especially women, is a big concern. This case highlights the need for stricter laws and enforcement to protect both domestic and international travelers.

For Instance

Think of it like a security guard in your apartment complex being extra vigilant after a break-in. The court's strong punishment is like that extra security, aiming to prevent future crimes.

This matters because everyone deserves to feel safe, especially when they are visiting new places. Strong punishments can help deter criminals and protect our communities.

Justice must be served to protect the vulnerable and deter future crimes.

Visual Insights

Location of Hampi Gang Rape Case

Shows the location of Hampi in Karnataka, where the gang rape and murder occurred. This highlights the geographic context of the crime.

Loading interactive map...

📍Karnataka
More Information

Background

The recent sentencing in the Hampi gang rape case highlights the importance of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which replaced the Indian Penal Code. The BNS aims to provide a more comprehensive and updated legal framework for addressing crimes, including sexual offenses and murder. The severity of the crime and its impact on the victims and society led the court to invoke the provisions of the BNS to deliver a stringent punishment. Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracts a large number of tourists, both domestic and international. Crimes against tourists can severely impact the tourism industry and the country's image. Ensuring the safety and security of tourists is crucial for maintaining the flow of tourism and supporting the local economy. The court's decision reflects the need to deter such heinous crimes and protect vulnerable populations. The concept of rule of law is fundamental to the Indian legal system. It ensures that everyone is subject to the law, and no one is above it. The Hampi case demonstrates the application of the rule of law, where the perpetrators were brought to justice and sentenced according to the law. This upholds the principles of fairness, equality, and accountability within the legal system.

Latest Developments

In recent years, there has been increased focus on amending and updating criminal laws in India. The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam were enacted in 2023 to replace the Indian Penal Code, the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Indian Evidence Act, respectively. These new laws aim to modernize the criminal justice system and address contemporary challenges in crime and law enforcement. The Ministry of Home Affairs has been actively working on strengthening the criminal justice system through various initiatives, including the implementation of the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) project. This project aims to integrate various pillars of the criminal justice system, such as police, courts, prisons, and forensic science laboratories, to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. The government is also focusing on improving forensic capabilities and promoting the use of technology in crime investigation. Looking ahead, there is a growing emphasis on victim compensation and rehabilitation in cases of heinous crimes. The government is considering measures to ensure that victims receive adequate support and assistance to rebuild their lives. There is also a focus on raising awareness about sexual offenses and promoting a culture of respect and safety, particularly for women and vulnerable groups.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the key facts about the Hampi gang rape case that are important for UPSC Prelims?

The key facts include: three men were sentenced to death, the victims included an Israeli traveler and a homestay owner, the convicts were found guilty under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the incident occurred near Hampi in March 2025.

2. What is the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and why is it relevant to this case?

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) is a new criminal code that replaced the Indian Penal Code. It is relevant because the convicts in the Hampi gang rape case were found guilty under its provisions. The BNS aims to modernize and update the legal framework for addressing crimes.

3. Can you briefly describe the 'rarest of rare' doctrine and its potential application in this case?

The 'rarest of rare' doctrine is a principle used by courts when considering the death penalty. It suggests that capital punishment should only be applied in the most heinous and exceptional cases. Given the brutality of the Hampi gang rape and murder, the court likely considered this doctrine when sentencing the convicts to death.

4. What impact does a crime like the Hampi gang rape have on tourism?

Such heinous crimes can severely damage the tourism industry. They create a sense of fear and insecurity among potential tourists, leading to a decline in tourist arrivals and revenue for local businesses. It also affects the reputation of the place as a safe destination.

5. Why is the Hampi gang rape case in the news recently?

The case is in the news because the court delivered its verdict, sentencing three men to death for the crime. This has brought renewed attention to the severity of sexual violence and the importance of justice for victims.

6. What are the recent developments in India regarding criminal law reforms?

Recent developments include the enactment of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and the Bharatiya Sakshya Adhiniyam in 2023. These laws replace the Indian Penal Code, the Code of Criminal Procedure, and the Indian Evidence Act, respectively, aiming to modernize the criminal justice system.

7. What is the significance of the court emphasizing the severity of the crime against tourists?

Emphasizing the severity of crimes against tourists highlights the need to protect visitors and maintain the reputation of the country as a safe destination. It also sends a strong message that such crimes will be dealt with severely to deter future offenses.

8. What are the names of the key personalities convicted in the Hampi gang rape case?

The key personalities convicted in the Hampi gang rape case are Mallesh, Sai, and Sharanappa.

9. What is the importance of 'Rule of Law' in cases like the Hampi gang rape and murder?

The 'Rule of Law' ensures that everyone is equal before the law and that justice is administered fairly and impartially. In the Hampi case, it means that the accused were given a fair trial and the court delivered a verdict based on evidence and legal principles, regardless of their status or background.

10. What specific sections under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) were likely used to convict the accused in the Hampi case?

Based on available information, the convicts were found guilty under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for murder, gang rape, and robbery. Specific sections related to these crimes would have been applied.

Practice Questions (MCQs)

1. Consider the following statements regarding the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS): 1. The BNS replaces the Indian Penal Code (IPC). 2. The BNS was enacted in 2020. 3. The BNS aims to modernize the criminal justice system in India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

  • A.1 and 2 only
  • B.1 and 3 only
  • C.2 and 3 only
  • D.1, 2 and 3
Show Answer

Answer: B

Statement 1 is CORRECT: The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) replaces the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Statement 2 is INCORRECT: The BNS was enacted in 2023, not 2020. Statement 3 is CORRECT: The BNS aims to modernize the criminal justice system in India. Therefore, only statements 1 and 3 are correct.

2. In the context of the Hampi gang rape case, which of the following best describes the significance of the court's decision to sentence the convicts to death?

  • A.It highlights the court's focus on rehabilitation of criminals.
  • B.It demonstrates the court's commitment to upholding the rule of law and deterring heinous crimes.
  • C.It indicates a shift towards restorative justice practices.
  • D.It reflects the court's emphasis on reducing prison overcrowding.
Show Answer

Answer: B

The court's decision to sentence the convicts to death demonstrates its commitment to upholding the rule of law and deterring heinous crimes. The severity of the punishment reflects the gravity of the offense and the need to protect vulnerable populations, including tourists. Options A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not align with the primary objective of the court's decision, which is to ensure justice and deter future crimes.

3. Which of the following is NOT a key objective of the Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) project in India?

  • A.Integrating various pillars of the criminal justice system.
  • B.Enhancing efficiency and effectiveness of law enforcement.
  • C.Promoting the use of technology in crime investigation.
  • D.Decentralizing the criminal justice system.
Show Answer

Answer: D

The Inter-Operable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) project aims to integrate various pillars of the criminal justice system, such as police, courts, prisons, and forensic science laboratories, to enhance efficiency and effectiveness. It also promotes the use of technology in crime investigation. Decentralizing the criminal justice system is not a key objective of the ICJS project. The focus is on integration and coordination, not decentralization.

Source Articles

Hampi gang rape and murder: Gangavathi Court sentences three to death - The Hindu

The Hindu·17 Feb 2026

3 convicted in Hampi gang rape and murder case - The Hindu

The Hindu·17 Feb 2026

Near historical Hampi, a heinous crime - The Hindu

The Hindu·17 Feb 2026

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