Karnataka Police Intensifies Action Against Unregistered Homestays in Kodagu | Mysuru News
MADIKERI: The police department will soon take action against homestays that have failed to register despite the simplification of homestay registration rules, Superintendent of Police K Ramarajan said.
Addressing a meeting of homestay and lodge owners in Madikeri taluk, he stated that the police department had previously imposed 18 conditions for registration, but now only three rules need to be followed. The relaxation of these rules is intended to ensure that all homestays operate officially. He added that this initiative aims to create employment opportunities for youth in rural areas.
Speaking at the meeting, Additional Superintendent of Police K S Sundar Raj noted that tourism has grown significantly in the district and should not be viewed merely as a business but also as a service.
He expressed concern that any unpleasant incident in the district would not only tarnish Kodagu’s reputation but also negatively impact tourism. He advised that it is essential for all tourists to present identity cards when staying at homestays.
Anita Bhaskar, Deputy Director of Tourism, remarked that no other region can match the hospitality of Kodagu. She highlighted that every year, 45 lakh tourists visit the district, based on ticket sales at tourist centres and parking fees. In total, it is estimated that 60 lakh people visit Kodagu annually. Given this influx, she emphasised the necessity of promoting sustainable and law-abiding tourism.
Out of approximately 4,000 homestays in the district, 500 have closed, while 2,229 are registered.
Homestay Association District President Monti Ganesh, District Hotel and Restaurant Owners Association advisor G Chidvilas, and Circle Inspector P K Raju spoke at the event. Chamber of Commerce District Vice President Naveen Ambekal, District Hotel and Resorts Owners Association General Secretary Nasir, and DySP Suraj were also present.
