Kannada TV Actor Charith Balappa Arrested for Sexual Harassment and Blackmail
In a shocking development, Kannada television actor Charith Balappa was arrested on Friday by Karnataka Police on charges of sexually harassing and blackmailing a 29-year-old actress. The arrest followed a complaint filed by the actress at the Rajarajeshwari Nagar Police Station, accusing the actor of threats, harassment, and coercion.
The charges against Balappa have been filed under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including sexual harassment, extortion, criminal intimidation, and threats of violence. The alleged incidents reportedly occurred over a span of two years, from 2023 to 2024.
Allegations
The complainant, a seasoned actress in Kannada and Telugu serials since 2017, became acquainted with Balappa in 2023. According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (West) S. Girish, Balappa subjected the actress to persistent mental harassment and made repeated demands for a romantic relationship. The actor also allegedly threatened her with violence and death.
The DCP revealed that Balappa leveraged the fact that the victim lived alone to pressure her into physical intimacy. The complaint further stated that the actor, often accompanied by associates, created disturbances near her residence to intimidate her into compliance.
Threats of Blackmail and Defamation
The actress accused Balappa of threatening to release private and explicit videos and photographs of her on social media and in WhatsApp groups containing actors and industry professionals if she failed to meet his financial demands. The victim alleged that the actor used his connections with influential individuals, including politicians and criminals, to intimidate her further. She also claimed that he threatened to have her jailed or harmed using his influence.
The complaint includes allegations that Balappa, a divorcee, repeatedly issued life threats, stating he could “finish her off” if she did not comply with his demands.
Police Action
Based on the victim’s complaint, the police registered a First Information Report (FIR) and arrested Charith Balappa. He faces multiple charges under Sections 115(2), 308(2), 352, 351(2), and 75(1)(i) and (ii) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. The authorities are also investigating the alleged involvement of Balappa’s associates in the harassment and threats.
This case has raised concerns about the abuse of power and influence within the entertainment industry. It highlights the vulnerability of individuals working in the field and underscores the need for stricter safeguards to protect against exploitation and harassment.
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