A 40-year-old employee of the State Bank of India (SBI) in East Bengaluru has filed a police complaint alleging sexual harassment by a customer who obtained her phone number during a bank visit.
The accused has been identified as KR Ravi Shetty, a businessman.
Incident during banking enquiry
According to the complaint, the incident began on March 10, when Shetty visited the bank branch to enquire about internet banking services.
During the interaction, he reportedly asked the employee—identified as Preethi (name changed)—to give a missed call to his mobile number as part of the banking communication. Believing it to be a routine request related to the service enquiry, she complied.
However, later that evening around 8 pm, Shetty allegedly began sending lewd and obscene messages to her phone.
Employee reports matter to bank management
Disturbed by the messages, the employee reportedly warned the accused and informed the branch’s chief manager on March 11.
According to police, the businessman initially said he would visit the bank and apologise for his behaviour.
However, the situation escalated when he allegedly sent another inappropriate message to the chief manager regarding the complainant around 5.20 pm, further aggravating the matter.
Police case registered
Following the incident, the employee approached the police and filed a formal complaint.
Based on the complaint, Banasawadi Police have registered a case against the accused under Section 75 (sexual harassment) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).
Police have issued a notice to KR Ravi Shetty and further investigation into the case is currently underway.
Authorities have reiterated that strict action will be taken against incidents of harassment, particularly in workplaces where employees must be able to perform their duties safely and without intimidation.