An interior designer has been arrested by the RR Nagar police for allegedly harassing his former employer’s wife over a prolonged period, culminating in a fresh complaint backed by digital evidence. The incident has raised concerns about cyber harassment and stalking within residential neighbourhoods in the city.
Background of the case
According to the police, the complainant — a 33-year-old resident of BEML Layout — filed an FIR on Sunday after receiving repeated inappropriate and unsolicited messages from the accused, identified as Ravi. The woman stated that she and her family had lived in Nagarabhavi 2nd Stage before shifting to BEML Layout in 2023.
Her husband, who runs an interior design firm, had employed Ravi around six years ago. He had been introduced by a family acquaintance and was even offered accommodation due to his financial situation at the time. However, within a short period, the complainant and her husband reportedly noticed behaviour that made her uncomfortable. Owing to this alleged inappropriate conduct, Ravi was relieved from his job.
Accused allegedly continued attempts to contact the family
After being removed from employment, the accused began to maintain unwanted contact with the family, police sources said. The complainant alleged that he attempted to stay in touch despite clear instructions to maintain distance. According to the FIR, after the family moved to BEML Layout last year, Ravi contacted her husband seeking forgiveness and expressed a desire to reconnect with the family.
Police said that on the pretext of wanting to see the couple’s children, he started visiting their new residence occasionally. The complainant mentioned that she and her husband repeatedly warned him to stop such visits and avoid contacting her directly.
Fresh complaint filed with digital evidence
Despite the warnings, the accused allegedly continued sending messages through social media platforms, including Instagram and Facebook. Officers said the complainant submitted screenshots and records of these messages, which formed part of her evidence.
“The accused is said to have repeatedly communicated with her despite being asked not to. The complainant approached us with substantial digital evidence, based on which we initiated action,” an investigating officer said.
The police stated that the messages were inappropriate in nature but withheld details due to the sensitive aspects of the case. Officers emphasised that the repeated communication and harassment constituted a clear violation of the complainant’s privacy and safety.
Police action and charges
Following the complaint, the RR Nagar police registered a case under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act. The charges include:
- Sexual harassment
- Stalking
- Insulting the modesty of a woman
- Transmitting objectionable material in electronic form
Ravi was taken into custody shortly after the registration of the FIR. Police officials said they are verifying all digital evidence submitted by the complainant and will record statements of additional witnesses, if required.
Cyber harassment concerns continue to grow
Incidents of cyberstalking and unsolicited communication have seen a steady rise across Bengaluru, police officials note. Many cases involve individuals known to the victims, including former colleagues, acquaintances, and neighbours. The cybercrime police station in the city has repeatedly urged residents to report early signs of online harassment before they escalate.
Experts add that easy access to social media and messaging platforms has contributed to a rise in harassment cases involving digital content. Victims, particularly women, face challenges ranging from persistent messaging to attempts at intimidation and boundary violations.
Community response and legal awareness
Legal experts emphasise that harassment through digital means is punishable under several laws. They also urge the public to maintain records, such as screenshots and call logs, which significantly help investigations. Neighbourhood associations in many areas of Bengaluru have also started awareness campaigns about online safety, especially for women and children.
Residents of BEML Layout and surrounding localities expressed concern about the growing instances of cyber harassment. Several citizens highlighted the importance of timely police intervention and stricter monitoring of offenders with a history of similar behaviour.
Conclusion
The arrest serves as yet another reminder of the importance of reporting harassment early and ensuring that victims feel supported in taking legal action. As the investigation progresses, the police are expected to file a detailed report based on digital evidence and testimonies. Bengaluru authorities continue to stress the significance of digital safety, especially as incidents of online and offline harassment increasingly intersect.