Anasuya Bharadwaj files cyber crime complaint in Cyberabad
TELANGANA: Actor and television anchor Anasuya Bharadwaj has approached the Cyberabad Cyber Crime Police, alleging sustained online harassment, character assassination and objectionable social media posts targeting her.
In her complaint, Anasuya said the abuse escalated from December 23 last year, following comments she made in an interview. She alleged a coordinated campaign on social media, involving obscene remarks, sexual slurs, threats and defamatory content intended to damage her reputation.
Case details and accused
Anasuya attached a list of accused persons along with links to their social media accounts, stating that the attacks were organised and sustained. She alleged criminal defamation, personal harassment and the use of artificial intelligence tools to create forged or morphed content.
Police registered cases against 42 individuals, including actors, radio presenters, content creators, influencers and social media account holders.
Who has been named
Those named include senior actor Karate Kalyani, radio jockey Shekhar Basha, social media influencers Bojja Sandhya Reddy, Priya Choudari Gogineni, Pavani and Rajini, actor Vijayalakshmi, a television channel anchor Rohit, and several YouTube channel operators and anchors.
Nature of allegations
The complaint cites morphing of photographs, creation of derogatory videos, abusive language and posts targeting her profession and personal life. Anasuya alleged that groups were formed on social media platforms to subject her to mental harassment, with posts and videos aimed at humiliating her as a woman and deliberately causing reputational harm.
She stated that the actions had a serious impact on both her personal and professional life.
Legal action
Cyber crime police registered cases under provisions of the Information Technology Act and relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code. Officials are likely to issue notices to the accused and call them for inquiry. Digital evidence, including videos, posts and screenshots, has been collected. If charges are proved, the accused could face fines and imprisonment.
Police response
Police said Anasuya’s complaint was taken seriously and a probe was launched immediately. Officials warned that violations of the law on social media would invite strict legal consequences.
Wider debate
The case has triggered renewed discussion on online abuse of celebrities, particularly women, with several public figures calling for responsible social media use and clearer boundaries between criticism and harassment.
