AMMA reacts to Ranjith's arrest over sexual assault allegations
What's the story
The Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) has expressed its full faith in the judicial system amid the ongoing sexual assault case against filmmaker Ranjith. The organization emphasized in a statement, "Women's safety is a fundamental and paramount aspect of the film industry." Meanwhile, Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) has also reacted to the allegations, calling them "grave" and questioning the industry's power structures.
Statement
AMMA's statement on the matter
In a statement, AMMA said that the Malayalam film industry must be made a safe space for everyone. The organization also reiterated its respect for the ongoing legal proceedings in the case and promised to wait for the judicial outcome. This comes after Ranjith was arrested on Tuesday evening following allegations of sexual assault by a woman actor on his film set.
Collective's response
'Where does this audacity of perpetrators come from?'
The WCC, an all-women organization for women working in the Malayalam cinema industry, said in a statement, "Yet another grave allegation by a young actress has shaken Kerala." "This time, the accusation is against director Ranjith. It is deeply distressing to realize that despite High Court directives and the new cinema policy, very little has changed on the ground." "Where does this audacity of perpetrators come from? From a system that simply does not function."
Case details
What are the allegations against Ranjith?
Ranjith was taken into police custody after a female actor accused him of attempting to sexually assault her on a film set. She alleged that he lured her into a caravan during the shoot and tried to assault her. Following this, the Kochi City Police formed a Special Investigation Team to investigate the allegations.
Filmmaker's response
Ranjith has been sent to judicial custody
After his arrest, Ranjith was sent to 14-day judicial custody. He has denied the allegations against him, claiming they are false. His lawyer said they are preparing to file a bail plea in court. The case against him includes multiple charges, such as outraging the modesty of a woman, sexual assault, wrongful confinement, and making obscene gestures.