10-Year-Old Boy Accused Of Groping Bengaluru Influencer; Users Claim North Indians Defaming The City

A troubling allegation made by a Bengaluru influencer has sparked disbelief among many. She has claimed that a ten-year-old boy groped her while she was filming in BTM Layout. The police have since identified the boy and are conducting further investigations into the incident.

According to an X post by Karnataka Portfolio, "Instagram user @nehabiswal120 reported experiencing sexual harassment in BTM Layout. She stated that as she walked down the street, a boy on a bicycle approached her, greeted her with a 'hi,' and then inappropriately touched her before quickly fleeing. In her video, she highlights this distressing event, emphasizing the unsafe conditions for women in Bengaluru."

In a tearful video, Biswal recounts the incident, claiming that the boy suddenly groped her, leaving her shaken. She shows the handprints left on her shirt where the boy allegedly touched her. In a subsequent video, she noted that while some locals assisted her in trying to catch the boy, others expressed skepticism about her story.

The videos elicited a wide range of comments. While many expressed support for her, some highlighted perceived divisions between different communities. A few users doubted her claim, calling her a "drama queen."

One X user commented, "Even the comments on this are disturbing. She has it all on record, yet some people resort to theories about North Indians trying to defame Bangalore?" Another added, "The public also has a responsibility to intervene in such situations. The police can't be everywhere; citizens should step in to stop such criminals."

However, there were also dissenting opinions. One user said, "I don't believe her," while another remarked, "This situation reflects the troubling state of India today. It's truly shameful."

No FIR Filed

"I did not file an FIR because a child is involved, and I don't want to ruin his future, but I do want him to be caught and given a warning," Biswal explained. She expressed gratitude to the Bengaluru police, stating, "They made me feel welcome as a local, but I am still mentally affected by the incident."

Police Response

"The boy is 10 years old and claims he was simply performing stunts on his bicycle when he brushed against the victim," explained DCP South Sarah Fatima to Moneycontrol. Biswal has chosen not to file an FIR to avoid negatively impacting the juvenile's future, but the investigation is ongoing.

Later, Biswal shared a video on Instagram thanking everyone who supported her during the ordeal. "I'm grateful to all who stood by me and provided incredible support. Thank you so much," she wrote.