A stunning case took place in Hubballi (Karnataka) when an officer of a private bank was arrested and accused of murdering a female bank employee, making her swallow poison. The victim, who is known as Hasinabegam, was also allegedly sexually exploited and assaulted over time. The case has raised widespread alarm and concerns about workplace safety and abuse of power.
Hasinabegam, who is originally from Mulagund, moved to Hubballi with her husband and children seven years ago. She was employed as housekeeping staff at a private bank in the city. Shyam Sundar, the bank manager, is claimed by her family to have used his position to get her job and then began sexually exploiting her. The family alleges this abuse persisted for years. Sundar allegedly visited Hasinabegam’s house two days before her death. The family alleges he sexually harassed her and forced her to drink poison before running from the scene. Hasinabegam was rushed to KIMS Hospital, where she struggled for two days but ultimately did not survive.
The victim’s family has accused Sundar of not only murder but also of sexual predation and assault on multiple occasions. They alleged that he abused his power as a bank manager to influence and manipulate her. The local police complaint illuminates both the physical and mental trauma Hasinabegam faced prior to her passing.
Police in Hubballi have registered a case and are now investigating the allegations. Officers are reviewing the nature of the incident, checking the family’s assertions and gathering evidence. The investigation will examine if Sundar’s conduct directly resulted in Hasinabegam’s death and whether sexual exploitation claims can be brought to light.
The situation has deeply shaken the local community, throwing into sharp relief what it means for women working in low-income jobs to be marginalized in harassment. It emphasizes the need for even stricter protection, responsibility and public knowledge; so that no power abuses become common enough among today’s rank and file residents.
Her family is now seeking justice regarding Hasinabegam’s alleged murder. Safe working environments and the protection of women from harassment and violence is a priority in the case, she said.
