Kundapura: Sexual harassment allegations – Dr. Robert Rebello arrested in Mumbai

Team Udayavani, Jun 8, 2024, 10:12 AM IST

Kundapura: Dr. Robert Rebello, previously serving as the administrative medical officer at Kundapura Taluk Govt Hospital, was apprehended by police in Mumbai on Friday. He is accused of multiple offenses, including sexual harassment and intimidation.

It is gathered that authorities located Dr. Rebello at a luxury resort in Mumbai following an investigation. He is being brought to the court for further proceedings.

A fellow doctor had filed a complaint, accusing him of sending inappropriate messages via WhatsApp and subjecting her to sexual and psychological harassment. After the allegations surfaced, Dr. Rebello went into hiding.

Taking cognizance of the allegations, the Udupi District Commissioner relieved him of his duties.

On June 4, the Karnataka Health Department officially suspended Dr. Rebello following the filing of an FIR. D Randeep, Commissioner of Health and Family Welfare Services, issued the suspension order.

The Kundapura police have booked a case against Dr. Rebello under various sections of the IPC, including Section 354 (assault or criminal force against a woman with intent to outrage her modesty), Section 354A (physical contact and advances involving unwelcome and explicit sexual overtures), Section 504 (intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of the peace), Section 506 (criminal intimidation), and Section 509 (word, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman).

The complaint states that Dr. Rebello allegedly called and sent messages to the woman late at night, questioning her about her personal life and relationship with her husband. She also accused him of both sexual and mental abuse.