Illegal homestays rampant in Kodagu

The concept of homestays, which was started with an idea of providing homely reception to the tourists, has now taken the form of an illegal commercial activity in Kodagu.

Only 500 among the 4,000 homestays in the district are found to be legal, with the rest being illegal.

Though most of the homestays in Kodagu are full during weekends, these establishments do not fetch any revenue to the government, as the homestays are not registered by the respective owners. Hence, the question of paying taxes does not arise.

While well-known homestays are based in the city, many others are situated on hills or on the banks of the river, on the outskirts of the city. It is difficult to track illegal activities in such homestays.

The owners of the unauthorised homestays have not been paying heed to the repeated warnings and deadlines by the district administration, for registering the homestays.

The district administration had recently warned of sealing the unregistered homestays if the norms are not adhered to. Tourism Minister Sa Ra Mahesh too had warned of initiating stern action against unauthorised homestay owners.

As industries are not allowed in the district, there are no other income generating occupations in Kodagu, apart from agriculture and tourism.

Thousands of people have been making their livelihood through tourism. Considering this fact, the Tourism Department had given a nod for homestays earlier, on the condition that only legal residences may offer homestays to tourists.

Also, it was clearly mentioned that the houses should comprise of three additional rooms, except the living room. A NoC (No objection certificate) from the tourism and police departments, along with one issued by the local body, are mandatory, said officials from the Tourism Department.

The tourists are required to provide their complete address, contact details, duration of stay and photocopy of their identity card while checking-in. The department also cast obligations on the hosts. In case the homestay owners come across any suspicious acts by tourists staying at their place, the Police Department should be informed about the same. Homestays also cannot be run in rented houses.

Unfortunately, none of these norms are being adhered to in the district. A large number of youths are involved in the homestay business.

The definition of homestays has changed today, deviating from the sole purpose of introducing Kodava culture, lifestyle and cuisine, building cordial relations and creating awareness on nature.

People who come to experience the true flavour of Kodava tradition are disappointed, because of trouble-mongers who come for merry-making.

Moreover, middlemen of the homestays annoy tourists by stopping their vehicles in an attempt to pressurise them to visit some specific homestays. Following complaints, such middlemen have been warned by the police.