Bengaluru Police have registered an FIR against Ola Electric CEO Bhavish Aggarwal and senior executive Subrat Kumar Das after a company employee allegedly died by suicide and named them in a note.
The incident has sparked widespread discussion about workplace stress and employee well-being in Indian tech start-ups.
Background: Employee’s Death and Allegations
The deceased, K. Aravind, aged 38, worked as a homologation engineer at Ola Electric since 2022. He was found dead in his Bengaluru apartment on September 28, 2025.
Police recovered a 28-page handwritten suicide note, in which Aravind reportedly accused Bhavish Aggarwal and other company officials of mental harassment, unpaid dues, and excessive workload.
The note also mentioned alleged humiliation and threats related to project targets.
Two days after his death, a ₹17.46 lakh bank transfer to his account raised further suspicion, prompting his family to demand a detailed inquiry.
Following the complaint, Bengaluru’s Subramanyapura Police registered an FIR against Bhavish Aggarwal and Subrat Kumar Das under Section 306 (abetment of suicide) and Section 34 (common intention) of the Indian Penal Code.
Ola Electric’s Response
Ola Electric, in an official statement, said it was “deeply saddened” by Aravind’s passing.
The company added that Aravind had never raised any formal complaint of harassment during his employment.
“We processed his final settlement promptly and extended our support to his family,” an Ola spokesperson said.
Ola Electric also clarified that the bank transfer mentioned by the family was part of his pending dues, not any hush payment.
The company has challenged the FIR in the Karnataka High Court, where a protective order has been granted, preventing immediate coercive action.
Legal Proceedings and Investigation
According to reports, the Bengaluru Police have begun examining Aravind’s emails, chat records, and internal communication with Ola management.
Investigators are verifying whether any form of harassment or workplace misconduct occurred.
Meanwhile, the Karnataka High Court is reviewing Ola Electric’s petition to quash the FIR.
If the case proceeds, top management could face further legal questioning.
Why This Case Matters
The FIR against Bhavish Aggarwal has raised major questions about employee welfare in India’s high-pressure start-up culture.
Ola Electric, one of India’s leading EV manufacturers, has been in the spotlight for its rapid expansion and tough work environment.
The case could push regulators to reexamine workplace ethics, HR oversight, and mental health support within large tech companies.
Industry experts say the incident highlights a growing concern — the psychological toll of overwork in fast-moving corporate settings.
What’s Next for Ola Electric
The investigation will continue over the coming weeks as police gather evidence and question witnesses.
If substantial proof of harassment is found, charges may be formally filed in court.
For Ola Electric, this comes at a sensitive time — the company is preparing for its IPO and expanding its EV production network across India.
Any negative publicity or legal outcome could affect investor confidence and brand image.
Conclusion
The FIR against Bhavish Aggarwal following an employee’s suicide is a sobering reminder of the urgent need for mental health awareness and responsible corporate governance.
As investigations unfold, the tech community will be watching closely to see whether this case sets new precedents for accountability in India’s start-up ecosystem.
