Bengaluru: A disturbing incident outside the Mall of Asia in Hebbal has sparked outrage after an unidentified man was allegedly caught recording women without their consent. The incident, which took place on Tuesday evening, escalated into a scuffle before bystanders intervened and handed the accused over to the police.
Women confront accused outside mall
According to a video now circulating widely on social media, two women realised they were being filmed by the man as they stepped out of the mall. When they confronted him about the recordings, the situation quickly turned hostile. The women alleged that the accused not only tried to push them away but also molested them before attempting to escape.
“We asked him what he was recording. He then molested us, touched us, and ran away,” one of the women stated in a video statement.
Bystanders prevent escape
Hearing the commotion, autorickshaw drivers and several passers-by rushed to the spot and chased the accused. Eyewitnesses reported that the man was restrained outside the mall after a brief pursuit. He was then handed over to the Kodigehalli police along with his mobile phone, which allegedly contained several videos of unsuspecting women and girls.
Police verifying evidence
Police officials confirmed that they had received the complaint and seized the phone for examination. “We are verifying the details of the video and the allegations. Appropriate action will be taken after investigation,” a senior officer said.
Meanwhile, the women have demanded strict action, stressing that such behaviour has become an increasing concern in Bengaluru. Social media users also voiced their anger, calling for stronger measures to curb public harassment and voyeurism in crowded areas.
Growing concern over safety
The incident has reignited the debate around women’s safety in public spaces in the city. Activists noted that despite repeated awareness drives and stricter laws, cases of molestation and illegal filming remain rampant in Bengaluru’s malls, pubs, and public gatherings.
Citizens have urged mall authorities to step up surveillance and security patrols to deter such offences, while campaigners have called for fast-tracked trials in cases involving women’s safety.
Conclusion
As police continue their probe into the Hebbal incident, the public outcry underscores the urgent need for preventive measures. With growing evidence of such acts being caught on camera, Bengaluru residents are demanding swifter and harsher punishment for offenders to ensure women feel safe in public spaces.