Woman alleges assault,sexual harassment by delivery agent in Bengaluru;Police delay action under scrutiny

Vinod M Jain 

A 28-year-old woman has filed a complaint at the Thirumalashettyhalli Police Station alleging assault, sexual harassment,and criminal intimidation by a delivery agent associated with Shadowfax.

According to the complaint,the incident occurred between 6:30 pm and 6:45 pm on April 15 near the entrance of Sanjeevini Srushti Apartments.

The accused,identified as Vishwas,had allegedly parked his motorcycle at the main gate,obstructing entry.When security guards asked him to move the vehicle,he reportedly began abusing them.

The complainant,who was walking her dogs at the time, intervened and advised the guards to follow society protocols.

This allegedly triggered the accused, who began verbally abusing her in obscene language and made sexually explicit gestures.

Assault and Molestation Alleged:

The woman stated that when she confronted him,the accused slapped her,attempted to pull her hair,and touched her inappropriately on the chest,allegedly trying to disrobe her.

She managed to resist and step away,sustaining injuries including bruises on her cheek and swelling in her hands.

Security personnel,identified as Sunil Yadav and Rohit Sarma,intervened during the altercation.

The entire incident was reportedly captured on CCTV cameras installed in and outside the apartment premises.

Police Response Questioned:

The complainant dialed the emergency helpline (112), following which a patrol vehicle arrived around 7:15 pm. However,she has alleged delays and lapses in police action.

She claimed:

Police initially refused to conduct a medical examination,asking her to get it done independently.

She was made to wait for hours at the police station before being asked to return the next day.

The FIR was registered only on April 16 around 6:45 pm, nearly a day after the incident.

She further alleged that the accused was briefly detained but later released, and was seen again at the apartment premises the following day.

Allegations of Intimidation:

The woman also alleged that individuals claiming to be representatives of the delivery company visited the police station and attempted to intimidate and emotionally pressure her to withdraw the complaint.

Legal Charges Sought:

In her complaint,she has sought action under charges including,Assault and causing hurt,Outraging the modesty of a woman Sexual harassment through gestures and words,Criminal intimidation.

Safety Concerns Raised:

The incident has raised serious concerns about women’s safety in residential communities and the accountability of delivery personnel.

The complainant has stated that she remains in a state of fear and has approached authorities through emails and written representations seeking strict action.Police said further investigation into the case is ongoing.