In a fresh development in Kozhikode, Kerala police have registered a case of abetment to suicide against a 35-year-old woman after a 42-year-old man was found dead at his residence following the circulation of a video accusing him of misconduct on a bus. The incident has sparked widespread public debate on the impact of social media allegations and the need for responsible digital behaviour.
Police identified the deceased as U Deepak, a native of Govindhapuram in Kozhikode district, who worked at a textile firm. On Friday, Deepak had travelled to Kannur district for work. A woman, later named Shimjitha Musthafa of Vadakara, recorded and shared a video on social media alleging that Deepak had behaved inappropriately during the bus journey. The video was widely circulated online, drawing significant public attention.
Deepak was found hanging in his room on Sunday morning after failing to respond to calls from his family. Initially, police registered a case of unnatural death. However, following a complaint by Deepak’s family members, a new case under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita for abetment to suicide was registered, naming the woman who posted the video as the accused.
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission has also taken cognisance of the situation, directing the North Zone Deputy Inspector General of Police to submit a report on the incident within a week. Deepak’s relatives and friends have expressed deep anguish, insisting that the viral video caused intense mental distress and played a central role in his tragic decision.
Political figures and public activists have weighed in, with some alleging a delay in the investigation and calling for stricter legal action against the accused. Meanwhile, the family has demanded a comprehensive inquiry to establish the complete circumstances leading up to Deepak’s death.
The case has reignited discussions across Kerala about social media accountability, mental health awareness, and the potential consequences of viral content that can profoundly affect an individual’s reputation and well-being.
News as reported
