A prominent real estate agent in Bengaluru has vanished after being accused of demanding sexual favours from a therapist at a spa centre. The incident, which has sent shockwaves through the city's professional circles, led to the registration of a formal police case on Tuesday, March 25.
The Alleged Incident and Police Complaint
The complaint was filed by the 26-year-old therapist at the Kumaraswamy Layout police station. According to the First Information Report (FIR), the accused, identified as Syed Sohail, allegedly visited the spa on March 23. After his session, he is accused of propositioning the therapist, demanding sexual favours from her.
The woman, traumatised by the encounter, immediately reported the incident to the spa management. Following internal discussions and a decision to take legal action, a formal police complaint was lodged two days later, on March 25. The police have registered a case under sections 354A (sexual harassment) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code.
Manhunt Launched for the Accused Realtor
Since the filing of the FIR, the accused realtor, Syed Sohail, has been absconding and is currently evading arrest. Law enforcement officials have confirmed that a manhunt is underway to locate and apprehend him. Teams are investigating his known addresses and contacts.
The case highlights the vulnerabilities faced by service professionals and has sparked conversations about safety and accountability. The Bengaluru Police are treating the matter with seriousness and are pursuing all leads to bring the accused to justice. The swift registration of the case based on the woman's complaint is being seen as a positive step.
Broader Implications and Call for Safety
This incident has thrown a spotlight on the need for robust mechanisms to prevent harassment in service-oriented industries. It raises critical questions about the safety protocols within wellness centres and the support systems available for employees who face such misconduct.
Community leaders and women's rights advocates in Bengaluru are urging all businesses to ensure safe working environments and clear channels for reporting harassment without fear of retaliation. The outcome of this police investigation is being closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in the future.
As the search for Syed Sohail continues, the Bengaluru police have assured the public that they are dedicated to resolving the case promptly. They have also encouraged anyone with information on the accused's whereabouts to come forward and assist with the investigation.
