Influencer Dies by Suicide; Family Alleges Death Threats and ₹3 Crore Demand by CEO

Twenty-seven-year-old finance influencer V Harish died by suicide at a rented villa near Chennai on Tuesday. His family alleged that cyberbullying, mental harassment and threats pushed him into severe emotional distress. His father also accused tech CEO Jason Samuel of threatening his son and demanding ₹3 crore. Police are investigating the circumstances surrounding Harish’s death and the allegations.

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Finance Influencer Faced Online Harassment Allegations

Harish built a substantial online following over five years by sharing financial education and investment-related content. He operated the brand Finance With Harish across Instagram and YouTube. His Instagram account reportedly had more than 1.3 million followers. According to his father’s police complaint, Samuel published social media posts and videos criticising Harish’s credentials on October 18. The family alleged that these publications damaged his reputation and caused significant mental distress.

Harish’s father accused Samuel of threatening his son and invoking the names of the Puducherry Chief Minister and an MLA. He alleged that Samuel threatened to block Harish’s social media accounts and harm his family. The complaint also mentioned an alleged demand for ₹3 crore. The father urged police to examine the relevant messages, videos and electronic evidence. Authorities have yet to establish the truth of these allegations.

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Family Seeks Investigation Into Social Media Accounts

In a video recorded before his death, Harish spoke about the dispute and its impact on his professional reputation. He alleged that someone threatened him with legal action over income tax issues and possible imprisonment. He also claimed that the person demanded money and referred to political connections. Harish expressed distress over losing years of hard work. He urged people to watch and share his video so others could understand his side of the dispute.

Harish’s father requested a detailed investigation into the alleged harassment and the suspension of his son’s social media accounts. He also asked police to determine whether other individuals participated in the alleged campaign. According to the family, Meta disabled Harish’s established account after the controversy emerged. Harish subsequently created another account, which was also taken down. Investigators will need to examine the available digital records to establish the circumstances surrounding these developments.

Tech CEO Denies Cyberbullying Allegations

Jason Samuel denied cyberbullying Harish in a post on X following his death. He said his criticism concerned Harish’s professional credentials and authority to provide financial advice. Samuel alleged that Harish lacked a SEBI Registered Investment Adviser licence and questioned his AMFI registration history. He said he had encouraged Harish to obtain the appropriate SEBI licence. Samuel also expressed grief over the influencer’s death and denied intending such an outcome. Kanathur police are investigating the case and the allegations made by Harish’s family.

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