Central Crime Branch to investigate Ola Electric employee's suicide case
What's the story
The Central Crime Branch (CCB) of Bengaluru has taken over the investigation into the alleged suicide of Ola Electric engineer Aravind Kannan. The family had written to both the Director General of Police (DGP) and Bengaluru Police Commissioner, expressing lack of faith in the earlier investigation and highlighting serious gaps in its handling. Senior Advocate P. Prasanna Kumar, representing Aravind's family, confirmed this development on Friday.
Investigation focus
CCB to investigate various aspects of the case
The CCB will now take over all further investigation in the case. This includes probing Kannan's suicide note, financial transactions flagged by his family, and the role of senior company officials named in their complaint. These include Ola Electric CEO Bhavish Aggarwal and homologation head Subrat Kumar Das, among others.
Incident details
Kannan's death and subsequent allegations
Kannan, a 38-year-old homologation engineer with Ola Electric since 2022, died by suicide on September 28. A 28-page suicide note was recovered later, alleging mental harassment, non-payment of dues, and sustained workplace pressure. The note named senior company officials including Aggarwal and Das among others. Following a complaint by Kannan's brother, an FIR was registered at Subramanyapura Police Station under Section 108 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (abetment to suicide).
Financial scrutiny
Family questions bank transfer post Aravind's death
The family has also questioned a bank transfer of around ₹17.46 lakh that arrived in Kannan's account shortly after his death. They allege this was an attempt to "cover up" financial irregularities and unpaid dues—a charge the company has strongly denied. Ola Electric maintains all payments were made as part of normal payroll and final settlement, with no salary dues pending at the time of the incident.
Legal proceedings
Ola Electric challenges FIR, family seeks police protection
Ola Electric has denied harassment allegations and is cooperating with the investigation while challenging the FIR in court. In earlier proceedings, the company sought relief from Karnataka High Court, claiming public campaigns around the case were harming its reputation and share price. Separately, Kannan's family has approached authorities seeking police protection due to fear and pressure as they pursue accountability from top management at Ola Electric.
Mental health
Please seek help if you're having suicidal thoughts
If you or anyone you know is suffering from suicidal thoughts, you can reach out to AASRA for suicide prevention counseling. Its number is 022-27546669 (24 hours). You can also dial Roshni NGO at +914066202000 or COOJ at +91-83222-52525. Sneha India Foundation, which works 24x7, can be contacted at +91-44246-40050, while Vandrevala Foundation's helpline number is +91-99996-66555 (call and WhatsApp).