Woman Stabbed in Whitefield Co-living Facility After Refusing Sexual Advances

A 24-year-old woman was allegedly stabbed by her male friend at a co-living facility in Whitefield, Bangalore, after she refused his sexual advances in the early hours of Tuesday. The accused, identified as Sai Babu Chennuru (37), also reportedly extorted money from the victim and threatened her with sharing explicit photos.

Chennuru, a native of Andhra Pradesh, works for a private firm, while his wife and children live in his hometown. The victim, who has been residing at the Pro4 Co-living PG accommodation in Whiterose Layout, Whitefield for the past three months, works as an analyst at a private bank. According to police, the two were friends.

Details of the Incident

Around 3 am on September 16, Chennuru allegedly knocked on the victim's room door demanding sexual favours. When she refused, citing that she was on her periods, he stabbed her in the left side of her back with a kitchen knife, causing minor injuries. He then allegedly stripped the woman, took explicit photographs, and threatened to share them with her family and friends unless she paid him Rs 70,000.

When the victim said she would borrow money from a friend, Chennuru reportedly took her phone and transferred Rs 17,000 through an online payment before fleeing. Later, at around 7 am, the victim contacted a friend who took her to a private hospital. Following the medico-legal case (MLC) report, she filed a police complaint.

Police Action and Arrest

A case has been registered under charges of attempt to murder, sexual harassment, assault on a woman with intent to outrage her modesty, and extortion. Chennuru was later apprehended by other residents when he returned in the evening, reportedly beaten by them before being handed over to the police. He is now in judicial custody.

Assault Complaint by the Accused

On Wednesday, Chennuru filed an assault complaint against five individuals, including PG management staff, claiming he was attacked after an argument with the victim. He alleged that Pradeep, Shiva, and three others verbally abused and assaulted him when he returned to the PG later that night.

The incident has sparked concern among residents and authorities about safety and security in co-living spaces in Bangalore. Police continue to investigate the case.