Bengaluru Influencer Blackmail Case Takes Twist As Businessman’s Wife Alleges Extramarital Affair

In a dramatic twist to the alleged blackmail case involving a Bengaluru-based businessman and a social media influencer, the businessman's wife has now accused him of hiding an illicit relationship and fabricating the blackmail allegations to protect himself.

The controversy revolves around Karthik Putha, owner of HK Permanent Makeup Clinic in Jayanagar, who had earlier filed a complaint against social media influencer Sadhana Shetty accusing her of blackmail and extortion.

According to Karthik's complaint, he had initially met Sadhana for promotional activities related to his clinic, after which the two reportedly became friends. He alleged that Sadhana later began blackmailing him using private photos and videos and demanded ₹1.5 crore.

Karthik had further claimed that he had already given Sadhana around ₹10 lakh along with expensive gifts including a gold ring, chain and an iPhone. Despite this, he alleged that her demands continued to increase. He also claimed that after refusing to pay further money, she allegedly sent private content to his wife and threatened to implicate him in false legal cases. Following the allegations, Karthik filed an FIR at the Jayanagar Police Station.

However, the case has now taken a fresh turn after Karthik's wife Harshita reportedly visited the police station and recorded her statement regarding the incident.

According to reports, Harshita told police that the blackmail allegations made by her husband were "completely false" and alleged that he was attempting to hide his sexual relationship with the young woman.

She reportedly said she was shocked after seeing the evidence sent by Sadhana and claimed that Karthik was not a major businessman as projected, but was involved in marketing related to cosmetic products.

Harshita also allegedly told police that Karthik filed the complaint fearing legal trouble in case Sadhana herself approached authorities first.

The case reportedly has earlier links to Hyderabad as well. Last year, Sadhana Shetty had allegedly filed a complaint in Hyderabad accusing Karthik of cheating her in the name of love and promising to continue the relationship. Reports further claimed that Karthik had allegedly arranged for her mobile phone to be stolen through two associates identified as Lokesh and Nagavarma.

According to the allegations, Karthik had also reportedly travelled with Sadhana to several locations including the Maldives during the course of their relationship.

Reports further stated that Sadhana had earlier visited Karthik's residence and created a scene accusing him of sexually exploiting her. Even during that incident, Harshita has now alleged that Karthik attempted to fabricate a false narrative.

Harshita has reportedly now written to the DGPs of both Hyderabad and Bengaluru alleging that Karthik created a false blackmail story and seeking action in the matter.

The police investigation into the allegations and counter-allegations is currently underway.