Police Register Abetment to Suicide Case Against Woman After Viral Video Leads to Man’s Death in Kozhikode

KOZHIKODE: Police in Kozhikode have registered a case against a woman for abetment to suicide following the death of a young man, Deepak, who reportedly took his own life after a video she circulated alleging sexual assault went viral.

The Kozhikode Medical College Police initiated the action based on a complaint filed by Deepak’s family. A new First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against the woman, with charges of abetment to suicide.

Earlier this evening, Medical College Police visited Deepak’s residence and recorded statements from his parents and brother. Deepak’s parents informed the police that their son had expressed distress, stating that the allegations made against him were false. The police also recorded the statement of a friend of Deepak’s.

The incident stems from an allegation made by the woman on social media last Friday. She shared a video claiming that Deepak had behaved inappropriately towards her during a bus journey to Kannur. The video rapidly gained traction, leading to widespread cyber-attacks and intense public scrutiny against Deepak. Reportedly, Deepak was in a state of severe mental distress following the viral video and subsequent backlash. He was tragically found dead at his home on Sunday. The incident has drawn significant criticism towards the woman, with many demanding that a case of abetment to suicide be registered against her.

In a related development, the Human Rights Commission has intervened in Deepak’s death. The Commission has directed the North Zone DIG to investigate the matter and submit an inquiry report within one week. Judicial Member K. Baijunath of the Commission announced that the case would be reviewed at a sitting scheduled for February 19 at the Kozhikode Public Works Rest House.