The suicide of Deepak in Kozhikode, Kerala, following sexual harassment allegations made through an Instagram Reel has sparked widespread outrage and discussions on social media vigilantism and police procedures. Deepak took his own life after a video accusing him of harassment went viral, leading to public shaming. His family and friends mentioned that he was deeply affected by the video circulating on various platforms.
Former Goa Governor P.S. Sreedharan Pillai, after visiting Deepak’s family, criticized the handling of the case, pointing out procedural lapses. He raised concerns about why the police initially classified the incident as an “unnatural death” despite the clear connection between the viral video and the suicide. Pillai emphasized that the situation could be seen as abetment to suicide, a serious offense punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
In response to a complaint filed by Deepak’s mother, the police have now registered a new FIR, including charges of abetment to suicide. The accused woman, Shimjitha Musthafa of Vadakara, is currently missing, prompting an intensified search. Authorities are also working to retrieve the mobile phone used to film the video and involving cyber police to recover deleted social media content.
Efforts are being made to investigate the case thoroughly, with the State Human Rights Commission directing a probe led by the North Zone DIG and demanding a report within a week. Political figures have also weighed in, criticizing alleged police inaction and the dangers of unchecked social media character attacks. The incident has highlighted the impact of online accusations on individuals’ lives before legal processes unfold, raising questions about accountability in the digital era.
