Kerala bus harassment row: Lookout notice considered for vlogger amid online hate, rape threats

The investigation into the suicide of 41-year-old Deepak, a sales manager from Govindapuram, has intensified, with police focusing on tracking Shimjitha Musthafa, the woman whose viral video allegedly triggered his death. Shimjitha, a former panchayat member and political activist, is reported to have gone into hiding, prompting police to monitor state borders and consider issuing a lookout notice amid fears she may leave the country.

The case stems from a video Shimjitha uploaded on social media, accusing Deepak of sexually harassing her during a bus journey in. The clip went viral days before his death.

Police are now focusing on digital evidence. CCTV footage from the bus has been secured, and cyber experts are working to retrieve the original, unedited versions of the videos circulated online, which were deleted before Shimjitha went into hiding. Preliminary findings suggest the clips shared publicly may not show the full sequence of events.

Statements are being recorded from the bus driver, conductor and passengers. Bus staff have said no complaint was raised during the journey. Police are also verifying Shimjitha’s earlier claim that she informed Vadakara police, which local officers have denied.

Family says online shaming pushed Deepak to death

Deepak was found dead at his home in Govindapuram on Sunday. His family says he was mentally shattered by what they describe as a “social media trial” and sustained online abuse after the video spread. They insist he was innocent and say they learned about the viral clip only after his death. The family has vowed to pursue legal steps to clear his name.

Social media outrage turns dangerous

As public debate grew, Shimjitha herself became a target of intense cyber abuse, including rape and murder threats. The backlash worsened after social media vlogger Ajay Unni released a video calling for women who allegedly make false harassment claims to be raped, saying men should commit such acts before dying.

ALSO READ | ‘Days after Deepak’s death, videos of Kerala men covering themselves with cardboard on buses go viral

Ajay Unni, who earlier contested local elections as a BJP candidate, said he stood by his remarks even if it led to punishment. BJP leaders in Idukki North quickly distanced the party from him, stating he holds no party position and that such statements are unacceptable.

Some online users have attempted to communalise the case, while men’s rights activists are citing it as an example of false accusations against men.

Police urge restraint amid rising tensions

While Shimjitha has been booked based on the family’s complaint, police have cautioned against drawing conclusions online. They say deciding guilt is a matter for investigation and law, not social media. Officers warn that online hate, threats and instant judgments risk turning one tragedy into many.