A disturbing viral video showing a woman and two men allegedly assaulted by a group of youths in Bengaluru has sparked outrage, prompting police to register a case and begin an investigation.
The incident reportedly took place in Kanaka Nagar under the limits of DJ Halli Police Station. According to police sources, the trio had been standing outside a café when they were confronted by a group of local youths over allegations of public smoking.
Argument turns violent
Authorities said the verbal exchange soon escalated into violence, with seven to eight youths allegedly chasing and assaulting the victims on the road, creating panic in the area.
During the attack, the accused were also said to have damaged the victims’ mobile phones. CCTV footage of the incident later surfaced online and quickly went viral.
Police sources further stated that the woman present with the group was allegedly slapped, though she did not suffer serious injuries. No formal complaint had initially been filed by the victims.
Police act after video spreads
Following the circulation of the footage on social media, police registered a suo motu case against unidentified persons and launched efforts to trace those involved.
Investigators are currently examining CCTV visuals and other available evidence to establish the sequence of events and identify the attackers.
Debate over moral policing
The incident has reignited concerns around so-called moral policing and vigilantism in public spaces. Many online users condemned the assault, stressing that disagreements over public behaviour cannot justify violence.
Citizens also called for stronger enforcement against mob behaviour and urged respect for law and due process.