Gujarat Tourist Family Faces Legal Action in Arunachal Pradesh for Resort Incident

Legal Action Against Tourists in Arunachal Pradesh

Itanagar, Feb 24: A police report has been filed against four members of a tourist family from Gujarat for allegedly threatening and verbally abusing the staff at a resort located in the Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh.

The individuals involved, identified as Aastha Patel, Dhruv Patel, Smita Patel, and Devendra Kumar Patel, are facing charges under various sections related to assault against women, obscene behavior, and criminal intimidation, as well as violations of the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.

This case was initiated at the Anini police station following the circulation of a video on social media, which depicted two of the accused verbally assaulting the resort staff after checking in on February 18.

A senior police official mentioned that they became aware of the situation only after the video gained traction online. "We dispatched officers to investigate the claims. The accused had already checked out by the morning of February 21," the official stated.

Efforts to reach the accused have been unsuccessful, according to the police.

The complaint lodged by the resort management indicated that upon their arrival, the guests were informed that outside food and alcoholic beverages were prohibited on the premises, in accordance with standard hospitality practices.

However, on February 20, the family reportedly brought in alcohol from outside and reacted aggressively when reminded of the resort's policies.

The FIR claims that Aastha and Dhruv Patel used vulgar and sexually inappropriate language towards the female staff, with Dhruv allegedly attempting to physically assault one of the employees.

Additionally, the accused are said to have damaged a display frame outlining the resort's rules and threatened to tarnish the resort's reputation and have it shut down using their "influential connections."

Rezina Mihu, the managing director of the resort, stated that she intervened after being alerted about the situation, noting that the district tourism officer was present and attempts were made to resolve the issue amicably.

"We tried to communicate politely, but they continued to escalate the situation. Our young staff members, many of whom are from remote areas, were deeply affected by the incident," she remarked, emphasizing that while the resort welcomes all visitors, such behavior cannot be overlooked.

In response, the Biodiversity and Tourism Management Society based in Anini has condemned the incident, expressing concern over the intimidation faced by local staff, which contradicts the principles of responsible tourism that emphasize respect and dignity.

The society has shown support for the victims and called for a thorough and prompt investigation by the authorities. "Tourism should foster cultural exchange and promote sustainable development without compromising the safety and well-being of the community," BTMS stated, highlighting Anini's tradition of hospitality rooted in mutual respect.

They urged all stakeholders to maintain civility to ensure that Dibang Valley remains a safe destination for everyone.