A 23-year-old woman from Manipur's Churachandpur district has accused a professor at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) and his wife of subjecting her to severe abuse, including starvation, assault, and confinement, over a period of five years. The Mico Layout police in southern Bengaluru have registered a First Information Report (FIR) based on her complaint.
Details of the Allegations
The woman, whose identity has been withheld for her safety, alleged that she was starved and physically assaulted whenever she fell ill. She claimed that she was confined to the professor's residence and denied basic necessities. The abuse reportedly began shortly after she started working as a domestic help at the couple's home in 2021.
According to the FIR, the victim was subjected to verbal and physical abuse, with the professor and his wife often hitting her with objects. She was also denied proper medical care when she fell sick, despite her pleas. The woman managed to escape from the house earlier this month and approached the police.
Police Investigation Underway
Mico Layout police have registered a case under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including those related to wrongful confinement, assault, and criminal intimidation. An investigation is underway, and the police have recorded the statements of the victim and witnesses.
Senior police officials said they are examining medical records and other evidence to build a strong case. The professor and his wife have not been arrested yet, as the investigation is in its early stages. The couple has denied the allegations, claiming the woman is making false accusations out of malice.
Community Reactions and Support
The incident has sparked outrage among the Manipuri community in Bengaluru and human rights activists. Several organizations have called for a thorough investigation and strict action against the accused. The victim is currently under the care of a shelter home and is receiving legal and psychological support.
IIMB has issued a statement saying it is aware of the allegations and is cooperating with the police. The institute has not yet commented on the professor's employment status pending the investigation.
