A Kannada and Telugu television actress filed a police complaint in Bengaluru after facing months of sexual harassment online. The accused, identified as Naveen K Mon, repeatedly sent obscene photos and videos via Facebook, even after being blocked and warned. The actress identified as Rajini, according to the times of India.
The Annapoorneshwari Nagar Police arrested him and sent him to judicial custody. The man has been charged under sections 75 (sexual harassment), 78 (stalking), and 79 (act intended to insult the modesty of a woman) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). Authorities have reaffirmed that online sexual harassment is a punishable offence and warned of strict actions against offenders.
TV Actress Alleges Online Harassment
The attack began when Naveen allegedly sent the actress a friend request on Facebook, which she declined. Ignoring this, he allegedly started sending explicit videos and vulgar messages persistently for nearly three months, even creating fake accounts to bypass blocks. The actress confronted him near Nandan Palace in Nagarabhavi on November 1 before filing a complaint with the police.
Investigation and Official Statements
Police confirmed the arrest of Naveen, a delivery manager at a global recruitment agency in Bengaluru. His electronic devices have been seized for forensic examination, and investigations are ongoing to identify any other fake profiles used for harassment.
Police officials emphasised that online harassment is a serious crime under the law and urged victims to report such cases promptly. Officers reaffirmed their commitment to protecting women’s dignity in digital spaces.
Past Online Sexual Harassment Cases
In the last few months, India has witnessed multiple high-profile online sexual harassment cases. For example, a 28-year-old cyber offender from Noida blackmailed women by hacking accounts and manipulating images, while a Bengaluru man persistently harassed a TV actor through multiple fake accounts despite repeated blocks.
These cases underscore the growing challenge of digital abuse amid increased online presence. Law enforcement agencies across states have intensified crackdowns, but victims continue to face psychological trauma and societal stigma.
What Women Should Do If They Face Online Sexual Harassment in India
India has a robust cyber security mechanism especially for women who face online sexual harassment. Women can lodge complaints on the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. Women can also report anonymously without giving any personal information, however, the detail of the incident must be accurate. Here are some other steps you can take.
- Immediately block the harasser on all platforms and avoid engaging with them.
- Preserve all evidence, including screenshots, chat logs, and links of abusive content.
- Report the harassment to the platform’s grievance officer and file a complaint with the cybercrime cell or local police, including details of the harasser if known.
- Use the Indian IT Act, among other legal provisions, which criminalise online sexual harassment, stalking, and abuse.
- Seek support from NGOs, counselling services, and legal aid organisations specialised in cyber harassment cases.
- Stay informed about rights and updated laws to empower oneself against digital abuse.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This troubling case highlights the urgent need for robust legal protections against online sexual harassment and the challenges of policing ever-evolving digital abuse.
Empowering victims to speak out, combined with swift police action, is vital in fostering safer online environments. Greater public and technological interventions are needed to prevent and address digital harassment.
