Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal, Executive Booked for Abetment to Suicide After Employee’s Death

The Bengaluru police have registered a case of abetment to suicide against Ola founder and CEO Bhavish Aggarwal and senior executive Subrath Kumar Das following the death of company employee K. Aravind (38), who allegedly died by suicide on September 28.

According to police, Aravind reportedly left behind a 28-page death note alleging persistent workplace harassment. The case was filed on the basis of a complaint lodged by Ashwin Kannan, Aravind’s brother, who accused senior Ola executives of mental harassment and financial irregularities amounting to ₹17.46 lakh.

“Aravind’s salary and incentives were withheld by the company,” the complaint alleged.

The FIR names Bhavish Aggarwal, Subrath Kumar Das — Head of Vehicle Homologations and Regulation — and others under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS).

Police said that after receiving the complaint, notices were issued to all those named in the FIR, and written explanations have since been submitted. “Further investigations are underway,” an officer said.

Ola, in an official statement on Monday, said it had challenged the FIR in the Karnataka High Court, which granted protective orders in the company’s favour.

“During his tenure, Aravind never raised any complaint or grievance regarding his employment or any harassment. His role also did not involve any direct interaction with the company’s top management, including the promoter,” the company spokesperson stated.

Aravind allegedly consumed poison at his home and later died in a private hospital. His family discovered the death note afterward, claiming the HR department failed to clarify unexplained money transfers to his bank account.