Karnataka HC Shields Ola CEO from Police Harassment in Suicide Case
In a major relief for Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal, the Karnataka High Court has instructed Bengaluru police not to harass him in connection with a suicide abetment case. The order came after Aggarwal sought judicial intervention, alleging undue pressure from authorities.
Case Background: What Led to the FIR?
The controversy traces back to 2021, when an Ola Electric employee died by suicide. The deceased’s family filed a complaint accusing Aggarwal and other executives of fostering a hostile work environment, leading to the tragedy.
Based on their allegations, police registered an FIR under IPC Section 306 (abetment of suicide). Aggarwal, however, denied any wrongdoing, claiming the case lacked merit and that the investigation was being conducted unfairly.
High Court’s Key Directions
Justice M. Nagaprasanna, overseeing the case, emphasized:
“While the probe must proceed, the accused cannot face unnecessary harassment. Police must follow due process.”
The court clarified that its order does not halt the investigation but ensures it remains fair and lawful.
Legal & Corporate Reactions
Experts Support Court’s Stand
- Sanjay Hegde (Senior Advocate): “High-profile individuals deserve the same legal protections as any citizen.”
- Activists’ Concerns: Some argue corporate leaders must still be scrutinized if workplace conditions harm mental health.
Ola’s Official Statement
The company expressed grief over the employee’s death but called the allegations “baseless.” A spokesperson added:
“We appreciate the court’s intervention and will continue cooperating with authorities.”
Broader Implications: Workplace Accountability & Legal Precedent
The case has sparked debates on:
– Corporate responsibility in employee mental health.
– Legal safeguards against investigative overreach.
– The need for stricter workplace well-being policies in high-pressure industries like tech.
Next Steps in the Case
- Police must now investigate without harassing Aggarwal.
- His legal team may seek quashing of the FIR if evidence remains weak.
This ruling sets a precedent for balancing victim justice and accused rights in similar cases.
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