Social Media : Allegations, Viral Pressure, and a Tragic Death A Case That Raises Serious Questions
Social Media: A tragic incident from Kerala has once again brought public attention to the powerful and often dangerous impact of social media allegations. A 42-year-old man died by suicide days after a video accusing him of inappropriate behavior went viral online. The case has triggered widespread debate around online judgment, cyber harassment, and the lack of due process in the digital age.
Background of the Incident
The deceased, identified as U Deepak, was a resident of Govindapuram in Kozhikode district, Kerala. He was employed as a sales manager at a textile store and was described by family members as a quiet individual who focused primarily on his work. On the morning of Sunday, 18 January 2026, Deepak was found dead at his residence. He was discovered hanging inside his room after repeated calls from his parents went unanswered.
According to reports, his parents were at home at the time. When Deepak failed to respond, neighbors were alerted, and the door was forced open. Authorities were informed immediately, and the body was later sent for post-mortem examination. Police have registered a case of unnatural death and initiated an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The Viral Video and Allegations
The incident is linked to a viral video that surfaced a few days before Deepak’s death. The video was posted on social media by a woman named Shimjitha, who alleged that Deepak sexually harassed her during a bus journey. The footage was recorded inside a crowded Kerala State Road Transport Corporation bus traveling from Payyannur railway station to the Payyannur bus stand in Kannur district.
In the video, Deepak can be seen standing near the woman while maintaining visible physical distance. As he moves to exit the bus, his elbow briefly brushes against her body. The woman claimed in her post that this contact was deliberate and described it as a sexual boundary violation rather than an accident.
Public Reaction and Online Judgment
The video quickly gained traction on social media platforms, crossing more than two million views within a short span. The viral nature of the content led to intense public scrutiny. While some users supported the woman’s claims, a significant number of viewers analyzed the footage and argued that the contact appeared accidental due to the overcrowded conditions inside the bus.
Despite divided opinions, Deepak became the subject of widespread online criticism. According to his family, he was subjected to relentless cyber bullying, public shaming, and character assassination. They stated that the online backlash caused him extreme mental distress in the days leading up to his death.
Family’s Claims and Mental Health Concerns
Family members have strongly denied the allegations made in the video. They claimed that Deepak frequently traveled for work and had never been involved in any form of misconduct. According to them, the viral post severely damaged his reputation and created unbearable psychological pressure.
The family has also alleged that the video was shared for attention and social media engagement without considering the consequences. They emphasized that Deepak was not given a chance to explain his side before being judged and condemned by thousands of strangers online.
Police Investigation and Legal Developments
Police authorities have confirmed that they are investigating both the viral video and the circumstances that may have led to the suicide. Although the alleged incident occurred in Payyannur, the case of unnatural death has been registered by the Kozhikode Medical College police station.
Officials have stated that they will examine the authenticity of the video, the sequence of events, and the online reactions that followed. They are also reviewing whether cyber harassment played a role in pushing the man toward taking his own life.
Meanwhile, police have also acknowledged that the woman who posted the video faced online abuse after the incident gained attention. This highlights how viral controversies often escalate into widespread digital hostility affecting multiple individuals.
Rising Debate on Viral Accusations
Following Deepak’s death, several men’s rights groups and social activists have raised concerns about the consequences of unverified viral accusations. They argue that while allegations of harassment must be taken seriously, public trials on social media can lead to irreversible damage, especially before any legal investigation is completed.
The case has sparked a broader discussion on accountability, responsible social media use, and the urgent need for legal safeguards against online harassment. Mental health experts have also emphasized the importance of emotional support systems and caution against the culture of instant judgment.
A Complex Issue with Lasting Impact
This incident underscores the complexity of balancing justice, empathy, and digital responsibility. As investigations continue, the case serves as a reminder of how quickly online narratives can spiral out of control and how deeply they can affect real lives.
The outcome of the police inquiry may provide clearer answers, but the tragedy has already left lasting questions about social media ethics, mental health awareness, and the human cost of viral outrage.