Bengaluru: The dramatic story of a Kerala techie surviving four days alone in a forest has now come under scrutiny, with police launching a probe to verify her claims, reported NDTV.

GS Sharanya, a 36-year-old IT professional, had gone missing during a trek to Thadiyandamol in Karnataka’s Kodagu district earlier this month before being rescued days later. While her account initially drew attention as a survival story, authorities are now examining whether everything happened as claimed.

Officials say no FIR has been registered yet, but the case is being examined following a complaint by local BJP leaders who cited growing doubts around the incident.

A police officer involved in the rescue made it clear that the investigation will now look into every detail.

What triggered the probe?

The complaint pointed to discussions on social media questioning how Sharanya managed to survive in a dense forest for four days without food. Concerns were also raised about possible misuse of government resources during the rescue operation.

Authorities have been asked to ensure a fair and transparent inquiry.

What Sharanya had claimed

Sharanya said she began her trek around 8 am on April 2 and reached the peak by 10:40 am with a group of 12 trekkers. Trouble began on the way down when she got separated.

Realising she was lost, she attempted to retrace her path but ended up deeper in the forest. Her phone battery died shortly after she managed to alert a homestay owner.

With no food and limited supplies, Sharanya said she survived by relying on water from a nearby stream.

“I didn’t carry food since it was considered an easy trek. I survived on three litres of water every day.”

Despite being in a forest known for wildlife like elephants, she said she remained unexpectedly calm.

On April 5, locals spotted her in a remote forest patch rarely accessed by people. 

While her rescue initially brought relief, the story soon went viral, bringing with it skepticism.

Online reactions have been divided, with some questioning the feasibility of her claims and others urging caution until the investigation is complete.