BENGALURU: A 22-year-old woman from Shivamogga district has died by suicide after allegedly facing blackmail and harassment by a man known to her, Bengaluru Police said.
The woman, identified as Vanishree, was staying at a paying guest accommodation in Sector 1 of HSR Layout and worked in the sales department of a jewellery store in the area.
According to police, Vanishree allegedly left a note in which she accused a person identified as Abhishek of blackmailing and harassing her.
Her roommate informed her sister, Pooja, about the note on the morning of August 22. Pooja and the PG owner began searching for Vanishree before informing the HSR Layout police.
Police, along with family members, subsequently searched the area around Agara Lake, where Vanishree's body was later recovered.
Police Register Abetment Case
Following a complaint filed by Pooja, HSR Layout police registered a case against Abhishek under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, relating to abetment of suicide.
The complaint alleges that Abhishek had been harassing Vanishree through phone calls, messages, photographs and videos.
Police have begun investigating the allegations and are examining the circumstances surrounding Vanishree's death.
The Two Knew Each Other
According to the complaint, Vanishree and Abhishek had known each other since their pre-university college (PUC) days.
After completing her degree in Sagar, Vanishree moved to Bengaluru in search of employment.
Police are now expected to examine their communications and other available evidence as part of the investigation.
Investigation Underway
The allegations against Abhishek have not been established in court. The registration of an FIR or criminal case represents the beginning of an investigation and does not by itself establish guilt.
Investigators will determine whether the alleged harassment and blackmail contributed to Vanishree's death and whether there is sufficient evidence to support the charge of abetment of suicide.
The case has also drawn attention to the growing risks associated with digital harassment, blackmail involving private photographs or videos, and coercive behaviour, particularly when such conduct is carried out through mobile phones and social-media platforms.
