Bengaluru police arrested filmmaker Hemant Kumar over sexual harassment, blackmail, and image misuse charges tied to a TV actress's allegations.

Bengaluru police have arrested 33-year-old Kannada filmmaker and actor Hemant Kumar on charges of sexual harassment, cheating, criminal intimidation, and unauthorized use of a woman’s image. The arrest follows a complaint from a television actress and reality show winner who alleged he promised her a film role in 2022, paid a ₹60,000 advance, and then pressured her to wear revealing clothing and perform explicit acts. She claimed he spiked her drink during a promotional event, filmed her while unconscious, and used the footage to blackmail her, threatening to release it and harm her and her mother. She also reported a bounced cheque and online posting of uncensored scenes despite a court injunction. Police confirmed he violated the injunction and has been remanded into judicial custody. The investigation remains ongoing.