Kerala Man Commits Suicide After Viral Sexual Harassment Video Sparks Outrage
January 24, 2026
On January 17, U. Deepak, a 42-year-old sales executive from Kozhikode, Kerala, died by suicide. The day before, Shimjitha Musthafa, a 35-year-old psychologist, posted a video claiming Deepak sexually harassed her on a crowded bus in Kannur district. The video went viral, reaching over 2 million viewers quickly. Deepak was deeply upset and feared public humiliation. His mother, K. Kanyaka, said, "He was very delicate. He would not do anything without asking me. To take such a step, he must have been broken inside." The police registered a case against Musthafa for abetment to suicide and arrested her. Investigation revealed no evidence of harassment in CCTV footage or witness statements. Musthafa denies the charges and claims she was harassed. The police continue their inquiry as public opinion divides sharply. Many support Musthafa citing women's safety in public transport, while others demand accountability for false accusations. This tragic event has raised urgent questions about mental health, social media's power, and justice in Kerala. The Kerala Suicide Prevention Helpline, Disha, is available at 1056 or 0471-2552056 for those in distress.
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Tags:
Sexual harassment
Suicide
Social media
Kerala
Public Shaming
Mental health
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