Kannada actor Charith Balappa arrested for harassment, extortion and criminal threats – Karnataka News

Kannada television actor Charit Balappa, known for his role in popular regional serial Muddulakshmi and appearances in Telugu serials, has been arrested on charges of sexual harassment, assault, extortion and criminal intimidation. The arrest came after a complaint filed by the 29-year-old actress, police confirmed on Friday.

According to police, the alleged incidents occurred between November 1, 2023 and December 13, 2024. The actress, who works in Telugu and Kannada serials, stated in her complaint that she first met Balappa in 2017 when he was also an actor in the industry.

The plaintiff accused Balappa of exploiting her good nature by coercing her into physical relations under threat of defamation if she refused. The FIR further alleged that Balappa, knowing that she lived alone, had once barged into her house with his accomplices, harassing her and causing commotion.

The actress also alleged that Balappa demanded money from her and threatened to share their private photos on social media and a WhatsApp group that included other actors. She also accused him of using his alleged connections with influential people, including politicians, rowdies and police officers, to intimidate her. According to the complaint, Balappa threatened to file false cases against her and even hinted at jailing her.

The FIR stated that Balappa, who is divorced, psychologically tortured, physically abused and threatened to kill the actress. Based on the complaint, the police registered a case at the Rajarajeshwari Nagar police station under several sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including those relating to voluntary hurt, extortion, criminal intimidation and sexual harassment.

“The accused actor has been detained, further investigation is underway,” said a police representative.