Authorities have initiated legal proceedings against Ola Electric’s founder and several senior executives after the unfortunate death of a 38-year-old engineer. Police confirmed on Monday, October 20, 2025, that the deceased, K. Aravind, who joined Ola Electric as a Homologation Engineer in Koramangala in 2022, had reportedly alleged “harassment” by company officials.
Responding to the allegations, an Ola Electric spokesperson stated that the company has challenged the First Information Report (FIR) in the Karnataka High Court, which has since issued protective orders for Ola Electric and its personnel.
The company conveyed its profound sorrow over Aravind’s passing, extending condolences to his family. Their statement highlighted that Aravind had been a part of Ola Electric for more than three and a half years, working from their Bengaluru headquarters.
Ola Electric further noted that throughout his employment, Aravind had never formally reported any complaints, grievances, or instances of harassment. The company also clarified that his position did not entail direct contact with top management, including the founder.
As a measure of immediate support, Ola Electric confirmed that Aravind’s full and final settlement was swiftly processed and transferred to his bank account.
Police reports indicate that Aravind’s brother, Ashwin Kannan, filed a complaint detailing the incident. On September 28, Aravind reportedly attempted to take his own life at his Chikkalasandra apartment. He was immediately transported to Maharaja Agrasen Hospital but tragically passed away from his injuries despite extensive medical intervention.
A crucial piece of evidence, a 28-page handwritten note, was discovered in Aravind’s room. In this note, he allegedly accused his superiors of severe mental harassment and withholding his salary and allowances, factors he claimed drove him to consume poison.
Based on Aravind’s suicide note, his brother’s complaint specifically implicates Subrat Kumar Das, Head of Homologation Engineering, Ola Electric founder Bhavish Aggarwal, and other company officials. The complaint alleges that these individuals subjected Aravind to “sustained workplace harassment” and intentionally withheld his salary and other dues, leading to his profound distress.
The family also raised concerns about a suspicious transaction: ₹17.46 lakh was transferred to Aravind’s bank account via NEFT on September 30, a mere two days after his death. They consider the timing of this payment highly questionable.
Furthermore, the complaint asserts that when company representatives were questioned, their explanations were allegedly “unclear,” suggesting an attempt to conceal internal failings.
Consequently, a formal case was filed on October 6 at the Subramanyapura police station. The charges, under Sections 108 (abetment of suicide) and 3(5) (common intention) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, name Subrat Kumar Das, Bhavish Aggarwal, and other individuals. Police confirm that a thorough investigation is actively ongoing.
Reaffirming its stance, Ola Electric reiterated in its statement that it is “fully cooperating with the authorities in their ongoing investigation” and remains dedicated to fostering a “safe, respectful, and supportive workplace for all employees.”