In a deeply concerning incident, an engineer working at Ola Electricals in Bengaluru has allegedly died by suicide, leaving behind a suicide note that reportedly implicates Ola founder Bhavish Aggarwal. The 38-year-old techie, identified as K Aravind, is said to have named Aggarwal and another official, Subrat Kumar Das, in a 28-page note, accusing them of workplace harassment.
According to reports, Aravind, who had been with Ola Electricals as a homologation engineer since 2022, consumed poison at his residence on September 28. He was found in distress by friends and taken to a hospital, where he passed away on the same day. Following his death, an Unnatural Death Report (UDR) was filed, and his brother later discovered the extensive note.
Allegations of Mental Torture and Financial Irregularities
The suicide note reportedly detailed allegations of mental torture and claimed that Aravind was denied his salary and allowances. However, a perplexing turn of events occurred two days after his death when his brother reportedly discovered a bank transfer of ₹17,46,313 into Aravind’s account. Attempts to clarify this transaction with Subrat Kumar Das were reportedly met with vague responses.
Ola’s representatives reportedly approached Aravind’s brother regarding the financial transfer, but their inability to provide consistent information only deepened the family’s suspicions. Subsequently, Aravind’s brother filed a police complaint, naming Bhavish Aggarwal, Das, and others, citing alleged harassment, humiliation, and financial exploitation. This led to the registration of an FIR.
Ola’s Response and Legal Action
Ola has issued a statement expressing condolences for Aravind’s death and confirming his employment with the company for over three years. In response to the FIR filed against Bhavish Aggarwal, Ola announced that it has approached the Karnataka High Court. The company stated that Aravind had not previously raised any concerns or complaints of harassment during his tenure and that his role did not involve direct interaction with senior management, including the promoter.
Meanwhile, comedian Kunal Kamra reacted to the news on social media, offering support for Aravind’s family, highlighting his past public exchanges with Bhavish Aggarwal.
If you or someone you know needs support, please reach out to a mental health professional. Helplines are available: Aasra: 022 2754 6669; Sneha India Foundation: +914424640050; Sanjivini: 011-24311918; Roshni Foundation (Secunderabad): 040-66202001, 040-66202000; ONE LIFE: 78930 78930; SEVA: 09441778290.