Hyderabad police have arrested tech employee Bandi Bageerath on allegations that he sexually assaulted a young woman repeatedly over the past year, threatening and manipulating her into silence even as he projected the image of a committed partner.
According to investigators, what began as a relationship in 2025 allegedly turned into a pattern of coercion, abuse and blackmail—one the survivor says she was too scared to expose until now.
How they met, and how it escalated
Police sources say the accused and the victim met in 2025 and stayed in touch through social media and phone calls. Over time, he allegedly gained her trust, positioned himself as a romantic partner and convinced her to meet him alone.
The complaint states that during these meetings, he forced himself on her sexually despite her resistance. Each time, he allegedly promised marriage or pleaded for forgiveness, only to repeat the abuse later.
Allegations of threats and control
Investigators say the survivor has accused Bageerath of using emotional blackmail and threats to keep her quiet.
According to the FIR, he:
- Allegedly threatened to leak private photos and chats if she spoke up
- Warned her that no one would believe her over him
- Used the promise of marriage as a tool to silence and control her
The complaint also claims he monitored her movements and tried to isolate her from friends and family whenever she expressed a desire to break off contact.
Complaint finally filed, accused arrested
Unable to cope with the alleged abuse and fear any longer, the victim eventually confided in her family and approached the police. Officers registered a case under relevant sections of the IPC and POCSO/sexual assault laws as applicable, and took the accused into custody after preliminary inquiry.
Police say they are now:
- Recording detailed statements from the survivor
- Gathering digital evidence, including messages, call records and any photos or videos
- Verifying timelines and locations mentioned in the complaint
Officers have also indicated that they may question friends, colleagues and others who can corroborate parts of the survivor’s account.
Legal case and possible charges
Based on the complaint, the case may involve serious charges such as:
- Rape/sexual assault
- Criminal intimidation
- Cheating, if false promises of marriage are legally established as part of a pattern of exploitation
Conviction on such charges can lead to long prison terms. However, the trial process—from evidence collection to cross-examination—will ultimately determine whether the allegations stand in court.
A reminder of how long abuse can stay hidden
This case highlights a pattern that women’s rights groups often warn about: abuse by someone known to the victim, spread over months or years, hidden behind the facade of a “relationship”.
Survivors frequently delay reporting because they fear:
- Blame and stigma from society
- Retaliation from the accused
- Being dismissed as “consensual relationship gone wrong”
Police and counsellors stress that delayed reporting does not automatically make an allegation false; it often reflects the survivor’s struggle with fear, shame and dependence.
What police and experts advise
Officers and legal experts say anyone in a similar situation should:
- Confide in at least one trusted person
- Preserve evidence (messages, photos, call logs, location history)
- Seek medical and psychological support as early as possible
- Approach the nearest police station, women’s police station, or women’s helpline
They also urge families not to dismiss or silence survivors out of fear of “family honour”, as that silence often protects the abuser, not the victim.
