Viral bus video case ends in tragedy, police book abetment charges in Kerala

Online accusation in a crowded bus, viral backlash and alleged harassment precede the death of a textile mill worker in Kerala, prompting police action and a human rights probe.

A disturbing incident from Kerala has once again brought focus on the dangers of viral social media accusations and online harassment. A 42-year-old textile mill worker from Kozhikode district allegedly died by suicide following a wave of abuse triggered by a short video that went viral online.

The incident dates back to January 16, when the worker was travelling on a public transport bus to Kannur for work. The bus was reportedly overcrowded. During the journey, a woman passenger recorded a 26-second selfie video and posted it online, alleging that a man standing beside her was touching her inappropriately by taking advantage of the crowd.

The video quickly spread across social media platforms. Netizens began sharing the clip widely, and the man seen in the video was subjected to intense trolling and online condemnation. The worker, however, denied the allegation. Despite his denial, the online criticism and abuse reportedly continued.

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Unable to cope with the sustained online pressure, the worker allegedly took an extreme step. On January 18, he was found dead at his residence, having ended his life. Following the incident, police initially registered a case of unnatural death.

Meet Shimjitha Mustafa from Kerala who made a propaganda video to post as reel and defamed an innocent man named Deepak U alleging that he intentionally touched her in a crowded bus. Distressed and helpless Deepak committed suicide. Shimjitha Mustafa is a Politician who contested… pic.twitter.com/YIsyeGwDAD

— NCMIndia Council For Men Affairs (@NCMIndiaa) January 19, 2026

After receiving a formal complaint from the family, police later registered a fresh case under Section 108 of the Indian Penal Code, which deals with abetment to suicide. Authorities stated that each aspect leading to the death would be examined carefully.

Adding to the seriousness of the case, the Kerala State Human Rights Commission has ordered a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the role of social media and the viral video.

The case has sparked a wider debate on the consequences of unverified allegations, social media trials, and the psychological impact of online abuse.