Acquittal in High-Profile Kerala Case
‘Her fight has ignited significant journeys for women in cinema, the Malayalam film industry, and Kerala.’
IMAGE: Movie star Dileep being escorted by the police. Photograph: ANI Photo
Dileep’s Statement Post-Acquittal
On Monday, actor Dileep expressed deep gratitude towards his family, supporters, and legal team following his acquittal by a trial court in Ernakulam, Kerala, concerning the 2017 sexual assault case.
‘I wholeheartedly thank my family, friends, and the countless people who prayed for me,’ Dileep stated.
He extended appreciation to his legal team for their dedication over the years.
‘I owe my life to Raman Pillai sir and thank my entire legal team, including Sujesh Menon, Philip T Varghese, Shubha, Nithya, and others,’ he added.
Allegations of Conspiracy
Dileep alleged that there was a ‘criminal conspiracy’ to frame him and manipulate media narratives against him.
‘A senior officer and certain police personnel orchestrated actions against me, fabricating a story with the help of some media outlets,’ he claimed.
‘This fabricated narrative collapsed in court today,’ Dileep concluded.
Court Verdict and Case Details
Judge Honey M Varghese of the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court acquitted Dileep after an extensive trial lasting around eight years.
The court found six accused guilty, with sentencing set for December 12.
The case involved the abduction and assault of an actress on February 17, 2017, involving several accused, including ‘Pulsar Suni’ as the main perpetrator.
The trial examined 261 witnesses and involved numerous legal complexities.
Reactions to the Verdict
IMAGE: Dileep speaks to the media. Photograph: ANI Photo
Industry and Public Responses
Actor and filmmaker Parvathy Thiruvothu expressed her dismay on social media following the acquittal.
‘We watch a carefully crafted screenplay unfold so cruelly now,’ she posted on Instagram.
The Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) stated that it respects the court’s decision.
Support for the Survivor
Several actors, including Rima Kallingal and Remya Nambeesan, shared the campaign tagline ‘Avalkoppam‘ (We stand with her), emphasizing solidarity with the survivor.
The Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), established in 2017, continues to advocate for a safe and professional environment for women in the industry.
In a statement, WCC highlighted the survivor’s courage and the ongoing journey towards justice, noting ‘3215 days of waiting for justice.’
Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff
Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff
