An alleged incident of sexual harassment reported in the heart of Bengaluru has sparked widespread outrage and raised serious concerns about women’s safety in public spaces. The incident came to public attention after the woman shared a video on Instagram, which quickly went viral and reignited concerns over women’s safety in public spaces, even during daytime and in crowded areas.In the widely circulated clip, a man is seen repeatedly putting his hand inside his pants while standing in public. According to the woman who recorded the video, the man continued the act despite heavy footfall around him. At one point, he appears to notice that he is being filmed, yet allegedly does not stop and continues the behaviour while facing the women.
An FIR has since been registered against the accused. The woman stated that she is fully cooperating with the Bengaluru Police and that further legal action is underway. Police officials have confirmed that the man is a regular presence on Church Street and that similar complaints and recordings involving him already exist. According to police sources, the behaviour was not an isolated incident, and other women have reportedly experienced similar harassment at the same location and around the same time.
The woman further alleged that she and her friend were stalked, watched, and followed for nearly 30 minutes in broad daylight. She said the man continued staring at them while touching himself, despite hundreds of people being nearby. She explained that they initially did not run away, as many women are taught that ignoring such behaviour may make the harasser leave. However, in this case, the man allegedly stopped only after they began recording him. “I was surrounded by people and still felt completely unsafe,” she said, adding that crowds do not protect women—accountability does.The video drew strong reactions from thousands online, with many demanding strict punishment and greater public accountability. Several women also shared their own experiences of harassment in crowded public spaces and during daytime hours. Police have assured that the matter is being taken seriously. Further investigation is ongoing, and authorities have stated that appropriate legal action will be taken based on available evidence and recordings.