Kerala actor rape case: HC issues notices to Dileep, others
What's the story
The Kerala High Court has issued notices to actor Dileep and others in the 2017 actor rape case. The move comes after the Kerala government challenged their acquittal, seeking enhancement of the punishment awarded to six convicts in this high-profile case. The government's appeal argues that the Ernakulam Sessions Court's decision to acquit Dileep and three others was "illegal and contrary to the evidence on record."
Legal arguments
Government's appeal says trial court 'gravely erred' in law
The Kerala government's appeal argues that the judgment of the trial court was "illegal and unsustainable, and liable to be set aside and modified." It further contends that the sentence awarded was "highly disproportionate and inadequate, considering the nature of the offenses, the manner of execution, and the terror created in society." The government also claims that the trial court "gravely erred" in law and on facts.
Upcoming hearing
More about the 2017 actor rape case
The Kerala High Court will hear the government's appeal. Dileep was acquitted by Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court in this case in December 2025, along with three others. The case dates back to 2017, when a leading Malayalam actor was gangraped in a moving vehicle. Dileep has been accused of masterminding the attack and even displaying videos of the assault to others. Six other accused were found guilty under various provisions of the Indian Penal Code and the Information Technology Act.