A social media influencer and content creator, Shimjitha Mustafa (35), posted an 18-second video on January 16, 2026, alleging that U Deepak (41 or 42), a sales manager from Govindapuram, Kozhikode, had sexually harassed her by inappropriate touching during a crowded private bus journey in Kozhikode district.
The clip went viral, leading to widespread public attention and online discussion. Deepak was found hanging in his room at home on January 18, 2026, with his family attributing his suicide to severe mental distress from the accusation, viral shaming, and cyberbullying.
Following a complaint from Deepak’s family, Kozhikode police registered a case against Shimjitha under Section 108 of the BNS for abetment.
On January 21, 2026, police arrested Shimjitha from a relative’s house in Vadakara (Chorode area) in plain clothes and remanded to 14 days’ judicial custody. She is to be lodged in Manjeri jail, as the investigation continues.
