Kannada film producer arrested for sexually harassing actress, blackmailing over private videos
Bengaluru, Oct 7 – Karnataka Police arrested Kannada film star and filmmaker Hemanth Kumar on Tuesday after an actress filed a complaint of sexual harassment and blackmail. The case was taken up by Rajajinagar Police in Bengaluru.
Kumar, who acted in, directed and produced the Kannada movie Richie, met the actress in 2022 and offered her a role in the film. According to police, the two clashed in August 2023 during a promotion event in Mumbai. At the event, Kumar allegedly spiked a mocktail with liquor. When the actress fainted, he reportedly captured private photos and videos of her. He then used the material to harass her and demand money.
The actress says she was promised ₹2 lakh for the role, with an advance of ₹60 000 already paid. She claims Kumar forced her into revealing clothing and arranged a private hotel stay under the guise of publicity. When she refused to comply, he threatened to release her uncensored pictures online and even issued life‑threats to her mother.
Further, preliminary investigations revealed a heated argument after Kumar accused the actress of skipping promotional events and ignoring his calls. In response, Kumar filed a complaint with the Kannada Film Chamber of Commerce, alleging that the actress and her mother had assaulted him. The film body stepped in to mediate the dispute.
Karnataka Police said they will continue the investigation and are awaiting more details. Hemanth Kumar’s arrest follows a string of legal actions against senior media figures in the region, including the recent detention of Kannada TV serial actor Charith Balappa. Balappa was arrested by RR Nagar Police after a 29‑year‑old actress accused him of sexual harassment, blackmail, and death threats.
Both cases underscore the growing scrutiny of misconduct allegations in the Kannada film industry. As investigations unfold, authorities will determine whether criminal charges are filed and what repercussions the accused may face.
Source: ianslive
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