Bengaluru: A 22-year-old woman working at a jewellery showroom was found dead in Agara Lake in Bengaluru’s HSR Layout on Saturday, with police investigating allegations of harassment and blackmail by a former classmate.
Woman leaves note accusing ex-classmate
The deceased, identified as Vani, was from Shivamogga district. According to reports, she left behind a purported note naming a former classmate, identified as Abhishek, and alleging that he had been troubling her and sending photographs and videos through WhatsApp.
Police said the woman had allegedly been subjected to persistent harassment and blackmail. Her family and police searched the area around Agara Lake after she went missing, following which her body was recovered.
Police begin investigation
The allegations made in the note are now being examined as part of the police investigation. Officers are looking into the communications between the woman and the accused and are gathering evidence to establish the circumstances that preceded her death.
The incident has once again drawn attention to the serious consequences of online harassment, blackmail and the misuse of private photographs and videos.
Police are expected to question the accused and record statements from people who were aware of the circumstances. Further legal action will depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation.
The allegations against the former classmate are yet to be established, and the investigation remains underway.
A reminder to seek help
Cases involving harassment and threats over private digital material can cause immense distress. Anyone facing such threats should seek immediate support from trusted family members, friends, law-enforcement authorities or appropriate support services rather than facing the situation alone.