Karnataka High Court Refuses to Quash Abetment Proceedings Against Man from Gubbi Taluk

The High Court of Karnataka has dismissed a criminal petition seeking the quashing of legal proceedings against Naveen G (33), a resident of Bettadahalli in Nitturu hobli of Gubbi taluk, Tumakuru district. The accused faces trial under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) for stalking, harassment, and abetting a suicide attempt. Justice M. Nagaprasanna, while delivering the order, observed that there was a sustained trail of pursuit, intimidation, and coercion against a 22-year-old woman. According to the prosecution, the accused persistently harassed the woman while she was pursuing her nursing education in Mysuru, compelling her to reciprocate his romantic interest. When she resisted, he threatened to leak photographs taken during joint visits to religious places. The situation escalated when the victim attempted to end her life in July 2025. Although her family initially withdrew a police complaint following assurances of non-interference, the accused allegedly resumed his behavior by sabotaging her marriage proposals by contacting prospective grooms. Justice Nagaprasanna stated that the court cannot erase the evidentiary trail before trial, directing the accused to face full trial in the jurisdictional court. The ruling highlights judicial zero-tolerance towards stalking and harassment, offering reassurance to families in Gubbi taluk regarding women's safety and legal accountability.