In a swift police operation on January 14, 2026, a 29‑year‑old man from Haryana was arrested in Bengaluru for allegedly stalking and sexually harassing a 34‑year‑old sports nutritionist and freelance fitness professional for nearly a year. The accused, identified as Sudhir Kumar of Rewari district, was taken into custody after a complaint lodged at the South Women Police Station and a subsequent case registered under sections 75, 78 and 79 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Background and Context
Online harassment has surged in India, with the Supreme Court’s 2021 ruling on the “Right to be Forgotten” and the 2022 amendments to the Information Technology Act tightening digital accountability. Bengaluru, a hub for fitness and wellness, has seen a rise in targeted harassment against women professionals, prompting law enforcement to adopt a zero‑tolerance stance. This case underscores the growing need for robust digital safety measures and swift legal recourse for victims.
Sudhir Kumar, unemployed and residing near the complainant’s aunt’s house, first noticed the nutritionist during her gym visits in Kathriguppe, Banashankari. He began following her on Instagram, sending inappropriate messages and later obtaining her mobile number through her aunt. Despite being blocked, he persisted, using multiple fake accounts to continue his harassment.
Key Developments
Timeline of Harassment
- October 24 – December 20, 2025: Kumar sent sexually explicit messages to the nutritionist’s Instagram account.
- May 10, 2025: He visited the nutritionist’s aunt’s house, threatened her, and warned her not to trouble her or her family.
- January 12, 2026: While at the gym, Kumar inquired about the nutritionist’s whereabouts through her gym mates, causing her distress.
- January 14, 2026: Police registered a case under sections 75 (sexual harassment), 78 (stalking), and 79 (insulting modesty) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
- January 14, 2026: Kumar was arrested, produced before the court, and remanded to judicial custody at Central Prison, Parappana Agrahara.
Police spokesperson, Inspector R. N. Sharma, stated, “The evidence, including screenshots of messages and the victim’s testimony, clearly shows a pattern of stalking and harassment. We acted promptly to ensure the safety of the complainant.”
The nutritionist, a native of Haryana, posted a video on her Instagram detailing the harassment and thanking the deputy commissioner of police (South) and an NGO for their support. She emphasized that the case had caused her severe mental trauma, reputational damage, and a genuine fear for her safety.
Impact Analysis
For students and young professionals, this incident highlights the vulnerability of women in public spaces and online platforms. The psychological toll of sustained harassment can lead to anxiety, depression, and a reluctance to engage in public or digital activities. Moreover, the case illustrates the importance of timely reporting and the role of law enforcement in providing protection.
Statistically, the Ministry of Women and Child Development reported a 35% increase in online harassment complaints in 2025, with Bengaluru accounting for 12% of the total. This trend signals a pressing need for better digital literacy and safety protocols among students and professionals alike.
Expert Insights and Practical Tips
Dr. Meera Patel, a psychologist specializing in cyber‑psychology, advises:
- Block and Report: Immediately block harassers on all platforms and report the content to the platform’s abuse team.
- Document Evidence: Save screenshots, chat logs, and any physical evidence. This documentation is crucial for legal action.
- Seek Support: Reach out to NGOs such as the Women’s Helpline or local advocacy groups for counseling and legal guidance.
- Use Privacy Settings: Restrict who can view your posts and who can contact you. Enable two‑factor authentication.
- Legal Recourse: File a First Information Report (FIR) under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act.
Cyber‑security expert Anil Kumar recommends that educational institutions incorporate digital safety modules into their curricula, teaching students how to protect personal data and respond to online threats.
Looking Ahead
The Karnataka Police Department has announced a new initiative to set up a dedicated cyber‑crime cell in Bengaluru, aimed at faster response times for online harassment cases. Additionally, the state government is drafting amendments to the Information Technology Act to impose stricter penalties for repeat offenders.
Lawmakers are also debating a bill that would mandate social media platforms to provide real‑time reporting tools and enforce stricter content moderation for harassment. If passed, it could reduce the time between harassment and legal intervention, potentially saving victims from prolonged distress.
For students, universities are expected to roll out mandatory workshops on digital citizenship, focusing on recognizing and reporting harassment. These measures aim to create safer online and offline environments for all.
In the broader context, this case serves as a reminder that vigilance, both personal and institutional, is essential in combating the rising tide of online harassment. The swift action taken by the Bengaluru police sets a precedent for other jurisdictions to follow.
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