A 42-year-old man identified as Deepak U from Govindapuram in Kozhikode, Kerala, was found dead at his residence on 18 January 2026, Sunday in an apparent suicide, days after a video accusing him of sexual misconduct on a bus was widely circulated on social media. The incident has prompted a police investigation and a directive from the Kerala State Human Rights Commission to examine the circumstances surrounding his death and the viral video.
According to police and media reports, a woman identified as Shimjitha Musthafa recorded a video inside a crowded Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) bus, alleging that Deepak had behaved inappropriately toward her during a journey. The video was uploaded to social media platforms, where it quickly gained traction, amassing over 20 lakh (2 million) views before being removed.
The clip, reportedly filmed on Friday, while both individuals stood close together in a crowded bus, showed a brief contact between Deepak and the woman, which she described as intentional and discomforting. Shimjitha later shared an explanatory video defending her decision to post the footage after she received public outrage, stating she had perceived inappropriate behaviour. Shimjitha who identifies herself as a consulting psychologist in her social media profiles, explained how the behaviour was inappropriate according to psychology as well in the second video released on Saturday.
Deepak’s body was discovered by his parents early on Sunday morning after he failed to respond to calls at his room. Police said Deepak was found hanging, and a case of unnatural death has been registered. Relatives and friends told authorities that Deepak was under severe mental stress after the video went viral and had not eaten for two days prior to his death.
Deepak worked as a sales manager with a textile firm and had travelled to Kannur for work on the day the video was recorded, police reported. His family has denied the allegations, calling them baseless and asserting that he was subjected to public humiliation and “character assassination” following the spread of the social media content.
The Kerala State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has instructed the Deputy Inspector General of Police for Kozhikode North Zone to probe the case, with a report expected within one week. The Commission’s review will consider the social media allegation, Deepak’s death, and related complaints filed by advocates seeking accountability and investigation into the role of viral content in the tragedy.
Meanwhile, activists have approached police authorities requesting an investigation into whether the video and its circulation constitute abetment to suicide; investigations are ongoing to determine all contributing factors.
Following a complaint filed by Deepak’s mother, police have registered a case against Shimjitha Musthafa for abetment of suicide. Police have stated that the registration of the case does not determine guilt and that further inquiry is ongoing.
The case has reignited public discussion about the impact of social media accusations, men's rights and the role of due process and verified reporting, and the mental health consequences associated with online scrutiny and public shaming.
Mental health professionals emphasize that suicide is a complex phenomenon often resulting from multiple stressors, and individuals under intense public pressure may experience emotional distress that requires timely support and intervention. According to the World Health Organization, social stressors, such as harassment or public shaming, can contribute to psychological strain but are among many factors influencing suicidal behaviour.
Disclaimer: This article deals with suicide and allegations of misconduct. If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, professional help is available. Contact your local mental health services or crisis support lines immediately.
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