In a shocking incident that has raised serious concerns about women's safety in urban apartments, a 27-year-old model was sexually harassed by a Zomato delivery executive inside her Bengaluru residence. The incident occurred in the upscale Bellandur area, highlighting vulnerabilities even within gated communities.
The Bengaluru Police swiftly arrested the accused delivery agent, identified as Sagar, following a complaint filed by the victim. According to police reports, the disturbing event unfolded when the model ordered food through the Zomato app on December 15th.
The Harrowing Sequence of Events
What began as a routine food delivery turned traumatic when the delivery executive, after handing over the order, allegedly made inappropriate advances toward the woman. The model, who resides alone in the apartment, immediately confronted the man and asked him to leave.
"The accused made sexually colored remarks and behaved inappropriately with the complainant inside her apartment," stated a police official from Bellandur police station. The quick-thinking model not only forced the agent to leave but also managed to capture photographic evidence of the perpetrator.
Swift Police Action and Legal Proceedings
The Bellandur Police registered a case under IPC Section 354A, which deals with sexual harassment and punishment for sexual harassment. The accused was promptly apprehended and produced before the court.
"We have taken strict action against the delivery partner and he is currently in judicial custody," confirmed a police spokesperson. The case has brought attention to the safety protocols followed by food delivery platforms when hiring and monitoring their delivery personnel.
Zomato's Response and Safety Measures
While Zomato officials haven't issued an official statement about this specific incident, the company has previously emphasized its zero-tolerance policy toward such behavior. The platform typically conducts background checks and provides safety guidelines to its delivery partners.
This incident has sparked conversations about the need for enhanced safety verification processes for delivery personnel who gain access to residential buildings and interact directly with customers in private spaces.
The model's courage in immediately reporting the incident and providing evidence has been commended by authorities, who encourage other victims to come forward without hesitation.