The nation was left in shock following the tragic death of Malaysian TikToker and activist Rajeswary Appahu, known by many as Esha. On July 5, the 30-year-old was found dead in her apartment, just a day after she had lodged a police report against individuals who had been cyberbullying her. This heartbreaking loss shone a spotlight on the dangers of online harassment, which took a deadly turn in Esha's case.

One of the key figures involved in the online harassment, B. Satishkumar, was sentenced to 12 months in prison yesterday by the Sessions Court. Satishkumar, a 44-year-old lorry driver, pleaded guilty to sending obscene and insulting messages, as well as harassing Esha's mother, P. R. Puspa. Judge Siti Aminah Ghazali handed down the sentence, which began from his arrest on June 10.

According to Kosmo!, Satishkumar was charged under Section 233(1)(a) of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998 for transmitting obscene communication with the intent to distress others. The offence, which took place via TikTok using the account @dulal_brothers_360, occurred on June 30 at a premise on Jalan Ipoh, Sentul. The charge carries a maximum punishment of RM50,000 in fines or up to one year in prison. Additionally, he could face a fine of RM1,000 for each day the offence continued after conviction.

In a second charge, Satishkumar was also accused of harassing and insulting the modesty of Esha's mother, also through the same TikTok account. This offence falls under Section 509 of the Penal Code and could result in a sentence of up to five years in prison, a fine, or both.

Deputy Public Prosecutor Mohd. Sabri Othman emphasized the severity of the obscene messages sent by Satishkumar, noting the malicious intent behind the harassment. He argued for a custodial sentence, stressing that this case should serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of using obscene language on social media. "A prison sentence is necessary to reflect the gravity of this offence," he stated.

However, Satishkumar pleaded for leniency, citing his role as the primary caregiver for his disabled wife and his modest income of RM1,200 per month.

The details of the case revealed that on June 30, a TikTok user had discovered the account @dulal_brothers_360, which used an image of Esha as a backdrop while making defamatory and abusive comments. Satishkumar went further, issuing threats of rape and murder towards the victim, exacerbating the emotional distress Esha was already experiencing.

This case highlights the damaging impact of cyberbullying and stands as a warning to those who misuse social media to harass and harm others.

Source: Kosmo!