Police in Bengaluru have made two arrests in connection with a case involving the posting of highly derogatory and offensive content about popular Kannada actor Darshan Thoogudeepa's wife, Vijayalakshmi. The arrests highlight the growing crackdown on cyber harassment and online abuse targeting public figures and their families.
Details of the Arrests and Offensive Content
The Central Division Cybercrime, Economic Offences and Narcotics (CEN) police station took into custody two individuals. The primary accused has been identified as Vinay, a 26-year-old software engineer working in Bengaluru. His associate, Likith, aged 25, was also arrested for his involvement in the case. The arrests were made based on a formal complaint lodged by a representative of the actor's family.
The investigation revealed that the accused created and managed a fake social media profile. Using this fabricated account, they posted objectionable and defamatory content specifically targeting Vijayalakshmi. The nature of the posts was deemed deeply offensive, prompting the family to seek legal recourse.
Legal Framework and Police Action
Following the complaint, law enforcement authorities moved swiftly. A case was officially registered on May 21, 2024. The charges invoked are serious and encompass both traditional penal code and modern information technology laws.
The accused have been booked under Section 67 of the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000, which deals with publishing or transmitting obscene material in electronic form. Additionally, sections from the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including Section 504 (intentional insult to provoke breach of peace) and Section 509 (word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman), have been applied.
This dual legal approach underscores the severity with which the authorities are treating such instances of online vilification and harassment.
Broader Implications and Zero Tolerance for Cyber Abuse
This incident is not an isolated one in the realm of celebrity life in India. Public figures, especially women associated with stars, often become targets of vicious online trolling and abuse. The arrest of a professional like a software engineer sends a strong message about accountability, regardless of the perpetrator's background.
The Bengaluru Police's proactive stance in this case reinforces a growing societal and legal consensus: freedom of expression does not extend to targeted harassment, defamation, or attacks on personal dignity. It serves as a cautionary note for social media users about the very real legal consequences of posting abusive content anonymously or under pseudonyms.
As the investigation proceeds, the police are likely to examine the digital trail thoroughly. The case emphasizes the need for continued vigilance and robust reporting mechanisms to combat cybercrime and protect individuals from online victimization.
