Daijiworld Media Network- Madikeri (SJM)

Madikeri, Sep 14: Owing to the increase in the cases of illegal activities that are taking place in homestays, Somwarpet DySPGangadharappa said that if the owners find any such unlawful activities in their homestays, such incidents must be mandatorily reported to the police. He also warned the owners to see that the homestays should not become the hub for illegal activities. They must also make sure that the homestays provide homely facilities to the tourists.

In a meeting held with Homestay Association Members, he said, “As stated by the law, the owners of the homestays must reside within the same property. They must also provide homely facilities to the tourists. But now, it is observed that several home stays have turned to carry out activities which are against the law.

“Over thousand homestays are registered with the tourism department and the district consists of over 4000 home stays. When the owners of the homestays do not stay in the property and appoint other staff to look after, this situation paves a way for other illicit activities,” he said.