PSI under scanner for messaging woman using complaint records

A Police Sub-Inspector (PSI) attached to Varthur Police Station has come under scrutiny after a city-based activist alleged that he contacted her on WhatsApp months after she had shared her phone number while filing a police complaint.

The victim raised the issue on the city police’s social media handle, alleging that the official used her contact details, originally provided for official purposes, to initiate a personal conversation nearly nine months after the complaint was lodged.

According to screenshots shared by the victim , the PSI allegedly enabled disappearing messages and enhanced privacy settings before sending a casual greeting on WhatsApp. When questioned about the reason for contacting her, he reportedly apologised and did not provide a satisfactory explanation.

She subsequently tagged Bengaluru City Police Commissioner and Bengaluru City Police officials on X, questioning whether such conduct by a police official was appropriate.

Responding to the post, the office of the Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP), Whitefield Division, acknowledged the complaint on X and directed Varthur Police Station to look into the matter.

The incident has reignited concerns about privacy and the handling of personal information provided by complainants to law enforcement agencies. The activist has alleged misuse of official records and breach of professional conduct.

The matter is currently under inquiry by DCP Whitefield division.

The controversy comes months after another incident involving a Bengaluru police inspector allegedly harassing a woman rowdy-sheeter surfaced in March this year, triggering debate over accountability and ethical conduct within the police force.