A 21-year-old woman was allegedly harassed and assaulted in broad daylight near her paying guest (PG) accommodation in Bengaluru’s Ullal area, leading to the arrest of a man she had befriended on Instagram. The incident occurred on December 22 around 3.20 pm and was captured on CCTV cameras installed in the locality.

Online Friendship Escalates Into Harassment

According to police, the accused, Naveen Kumar, a resident of Yelahanka, came into contact with the woman through Instagram after she posted promotional content related to her workplace in September 2024. What began as casual online interaction gradually developed into frequent calls, messages, and meetings in the Nagarabhavi area. Police said the woman repeatedly rejected Naveen’s attempts to turn the friendship into a romantic relationship.

According to her complaint filed with the Jnanabharathi police, the incident occurred between 3.20 pm and 3.40 pm. She stated that on September 30, while working as a tele-caller, she had posted an advertisement related to her firm on Instagram.

Stalking and Repeated Intimidation Alleged

In her complaint, the woman stated that Naveen continued to harass her despite clear refusal. He allegedly followed her movements, appeared near her workplace and PG accommodation, and refused to leave her alone. Unable to cope with the persistent harassment, she reportedly quit her job and shifted residences, but the accused allegedly continued to track her.

Public Assault Near PG Accommodation

On December 22, when the woman stepped out of her PG along Ullal Main Road, Naveen allegedly confronted her. Police said he assaulted her in public, causing injuries, and attempted to intimidate her before fleeing the scene. Though a few bystanders were present, no immediate intervention was reported.

Swift Police Action and Arrest

The victim alerted the police through the emergency helpline. A search operation was launched, and Naveen Kumar was arrested shortly thereafter. Police registered a case under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including assault, sexual harassment, stalking, and criminal intimidation.

Based on her complaint, the police registered a case under Sections 74 (assault or use of criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 75 (sexual harassment), 76 (assault or use of criminal force to a woman with intent to disrobe), 78 (stalking), 79 (word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman), and 351 (criminal intimidation) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

Accused Claims Relationship Dispute

During questioning, the accused reportedly claimed that the two were in a relationship and that a dispute led to the incident. Police, however, said the investigation so far supports the woman’s complaint. Deputy Commissioner of Police (South-West) Anitha B. Haddannavar confirmed that the accused was arrested within 24 hours and that further investigation is ongoing.

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