Bengaluru, 7 Oct

Kannada filmmaker Hemant Kumar has been arrested for allegedly blackmailing and sexually harassing a television actress he promised a lead role to in his film. The 33-year-old was apprehended on 5 October and has since been remanded to judicial custody.

In her complaint, the actress, known for her work in various television series, detailed that in 2022 Kumar, who presented himself as a producer and associate director, offered her a lead role.

Following an agreement for remuneration of Rs 2,00,000, Kumar delayed filming while allegedly harassing her to wear "indecent" clothing and behaving inappropriately during the shoots.

The situation escalated at a press conference in Mumbai on 5 August, 2023, where Kumar reportedly forced her to drink alcohol, mixing it into her drink without consent. This has led to him recording her without permission and using the footage to blackmail her.

The complainant sought a permanent injunction against Kumar, who allegedly continued to threaten her. A case has been registered under various sections of the Indian Penal Code and relevant IT provisions.