Bengaluru: Police have arrested three teenagers, including a minor, for allegedly harassing a young woman, said to be a television actress, on Silk Board Road around midnight on Christmas. The incident, which occurred late on December 25, came to light after a video of the harassment surfaced on social media, prompting swift action by the police.
According to the police, the accused have been identified as Roshan (19), Ayaan (19), and a minor. The trio allegedly followed the woman for nearly two kilometres on a motorcycle while she was travelling in her vehicle. Police said the youths repeatedly overtook her car and rode in a rash and zig-zag manner, deliberately attempting to block her path and intimidate her.
Incident caught on camera by commuter
The harassment was captured on a mobile phone by a fellow commuter who witnessed the incident on the busy Silk Board stretch. The video showed the motorcycle swerving dangerously in front of the woman’s vehicle and obstructing her movement on the road.
The commuter later shared the video on social media platform X, tagging the Bengaluru City Police and urging immediate action. The video quickly gained attention, drawing widespread condemnation and calls for strict action against those involved.
Police register case after complaint
Following the circulation of the video, the SG Palya police took suo motu note of the incident and also received a formal complaint from the woman. Based on the complaint and video evidence, police registered a case under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and provisions related to rash driving, criminal intimidation and harassment.
A senior police officer said the behaviour of the accused posed a serious threat not only to the woman but also to other road users. “The manner in which the motorcycle was ridden shows clear intent to harass and intimidate. Such actions cannot be tolerated,” the officer said.
Accused tracked and arrested
After registering the case, police launched an investigation to identify and trace the accused. Using vehicle details, CCTV footage from nearby junctions and technical inputs, the investigation team tracked down the trio within a short span of time.
Police said Roshan and Ayaan were arrested and produced before a magistrate, who remanded them to judicial custody. The minor has been produced before the Juvenile Justice Board and appropriate proceedings have been initiated under the Juvenile Justice Act.
Police warn against road harassment
Police officials reiterated that harassment and reckless behaviour on roads will invite strict legal action. They also lauded the commuter who recorded and shared the video, saying public cooperation played a key role in ensuring timely police intervention.
“Citizens should not hesitate to report such incidents. Videos and credible information shared with the police help us act quickly and ensure accountability,” a police officer said.
Rising concern over safety of women
The incident has once again raised concerns over the safety of women on city roads, especially during late-night hours. Activists and residents have called for increased patrolling and stricter enforcement of traffic and public safety laws to deter such behaviour.
Police said night patrolling has been intensified in sensitive stretches and assured that action will be taken against anyone found indulging in harassment, reckless driving or threatening behaviour.
Conclusion
With the arrest of the three teenagers, police said they hope to send a strong message that harassment and intimidation on public roads will not be tolerated. Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant, cooperate with law enforcement and promptly report incidents that compromise safety, particularly of women.