Bengaluru: A disturbing incident of alleged sexual harassment at a mall in Bengaluru has gained significant attention after a viral video captured the inappropriate behavior of a man towards a young woman. The accused, identified as Ashwath Narayan, is currently at large, and a police investigation is underway. The incident took place on October 29 and continues to raise concerns about the safety of women in public spaces.
The Incident and Video That Sparked Outrage
On October 29, a distressing incident unfolded at a mall in Bengaluru, which was recorded on video and later circulated widely on social media. In the video, Ashwath Narayan, a 60-year-old retired head teacher from Basaveshwaranagar, is seen allegedly engaging in inappropriate conduct towards a young woman. The incident occurred on the mall’s second floor in the Funtura game area around 6:30 p.m. The video, which captured the alleged misconduct, quickly gained attention and was posted on an Instagram account called “yesh_fitspiration.”
Viral Video Prompts Legal Action and Search for the Accused
The video’s rapid dissemination on social media platforms, along with television coverage, prompted the mall’s management to take action. In response to the public outrage and in the interest of ensuring justice, the mall management officially lodged a complaint with the police. This formal complaint led to the initiation of a police investigation and the registration of a First Information Report (FIR).
Accused’s Background and Current Status
Ashwath Narayan, identified as the perpetrator in the video, is a retired head teacher who left his profession approximately eight months ago. However, following the incident and the ensuing investigation, he reportedly locked his residence and fled the area. The police, specifically the Magadi Road Police, are actively searching for him to address the serious allegations against him.
Calls for Increased Safety Measures
This incident has raised concerns about the safety and security of women in public spaces, especially in light of the clear video evidence. It highlights the importance of both public vigilance and the role of social media in bringing such incidents to light. Ensuring the safety and dignity of individuals in public spaces remains a paramount concern for communities and law enforcement agencies. Efforts are currently underway to locate and apprehend the accused to hold him accountable for his actions and to send a message that such behavior will not be tolerated.
