Canadian Woman Alleges Harassment at Bengaluru Hotel; Management Terms Claim Extortion

A sexual harassment complaint involving a Canadian national has surfaced in Bengaluru, triggering a police investigation amid sharply conflicting claims from the complainant and the hotel management. The woman has alleged misconduct during a massage session at a well-known hotel in the city, while the management has rejected the accusation and described it as a failed extortion attempt.

According to the police complaint, the woman, who is of Punjabi origin and holds Canadian citizenship, stated that the incident occurred while she was changing clothes inside a massage room at the hotel. She alleged that the massage therapist abruptly opened the door during that time, leaving her exposed and shocked. The complainant described the incident as a violation of her privacy and claimed it caused her significant distress.

The woman further alleged that she immediately raised the issue with the hotel authorities but felt her concerns were not taken seriously. She claimed that instead of initiating a formal inquiry, the management attempted to settle the matter internally by refunding a portion of the amount she had paid for the service. According to her statement, she had paid ₹10,000 for the massage, of which ₹7,000 was allegedly returned, along with advice to not pursue the issue further.

Dissatisfied with the hotel’s response, the woman later approached the Vidhana Soudha Police Station and filed a formal complaint, following which the police registered a case and initiated an investigation. Authorities confirmed that the matter is being examined from multiple angles, including the sequence of events and the conduct of both parties involved.

Police sources, however, have indicated that there are inconsistencies in the complaint that are also being scrutinised. According to officials familiar with the investigation, the woman had reportedly demanded a substantial sum of money as compensation after the incident. When the hotel management allegedly declined to meet this demand, the complaint was filed, prompting the counter-allegation of extortion.

The hotel management has firmly denied the harassment claim, asserting that no misconduct took place and that internal procedures were followed appropriately. Officials associated with the hotel have maintained that the allegations are baseless and motivated by an attempt to extract money. They have stated that they are cooperating fully with the investigation and have provided relevant information to law enforcement authorities.

Police also confirmed that the complainant was in the city in connection with a musical concert. Following the incident, she reportedly cancelled her scheduled performance and left Bengaluru. Investigators are examining travel records, CCTV footage, staff statements, and other evidence to establish the facts of the case.

As the probe continues, authorities have emphasised that no conclusions have been drawn at this stage. Officials said due process will be followed and action will be taken strictly based on evidence. The case has once again highlighted the complexity of handling sensitive allegations where claims and counterclaims emerge simultaneously, underscoring the importance of a thorough and impartial investigation.