Kerala Police Charge Woman for Abetment After Viral Video Leads to Man's Suicide
Police in Kozhikode have invoked suicide abetment charges against a woman. This action follows the tragic death of Govindapuram native U Deepak on Monday. Authorities allege that a video she posted on social media played a key role in the incident.
Viral Video and Allegations
The woman filmed Deepak during a bus journey in Payyannur. She later shared the video online. In it, she accused him of touching her inappropriately. The footage quickly went viral across various social media platforms.
Deepak's mother, K Kanyaka, filed a formal complaint with the district police chief. She stated that her son died due to severe mental trauma. Kanyaka claims the woman leveled false allegations against Deepak.
"Murder charges should be invoked against her," Kanyaka insisted in her complaint. "She alone is responsible for my son's death." She described how Deepak felt deeply humiliated after the video spread. He reportedly told her there was no point in continuing to live.
Police Investigation Intensifies
Officers from the Medical College police station recorded statements from Deepak's parents on Monday afternoon. Despite efforts from friends and relatives to console him, Deepak took the extreme step in a state of acute distress. His mother said she tried to comfort him when he was extremely upset.
Meanwhile, police sources indicate the woman is currently absconding. A search operation has been launched to locate her. Officers were preparing to visit her home to record her statement when they discovered she was not there.
Police plan to take her phone into custody. They will examine the device to determine if the viral video was edited or manipulated in any way. Authorities have already collected the visuals she shared on social media as part of their evidence.
Broader Fallout and Official Probe
The incident has triggered widespread backlash and public criticism against the woman. Several complaints have been filed demanding action against her. Authorities have also initiated steps to record statements from co-passengers on the bus and the vehicle staff.
Taking cognizance of one such complaint, the State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has directed the North Zone DIG to probe the case. Judicial member K Byjunath issued the order. He directed that the investigation report must be submitted within one week.
The SHRC will take up the case on February 19. The hearing is scheduled during its sitting at the PWD rest house in Kozhikode. This formal inquiry adds another layer of scrutiny to the already complex and emotionally charged situation.
