Kerala police have arrested 35-year-old influencer Shimjitha Musthafa after a man, allegedly accused by her of harassment, died by suicide.
On January 16, Musthafa was traveling on a bus in the Payyannur area when she recorded a man, Deepak U (41), allegedly touching her inappropriately. She shared the video on social media, where it went viral, garnering over 20 lakh views.
In the video, Musthafa stated the incident was not accidental and called it a violation of her sexual boundaries. She added that she began recording after noticing a woman nearby appeared uncomfortable and claimed the man showed deliberate intent despite knowing he was being recorded.
Two days later, Deepak, a sales manager, was found hanging in his room in Govindapuram, Kozhikode. His parents alleged he was innocent and took his life due to the humiliation caused by social media outrage, noting he had refused food for two days, including on his birthday.
Police initially registered a case of unnatural death but later launched an investigation into the influence of the viral video and alleged social media trial. The deceased’s family accused Musthafa of tarnishing Deepak’s character for online publicity.
Authorities are examining the role of social media in the incident as the investigation continues.
