Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith in judicial custody in fresh assault case
What's the story
Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith Balakrishnan, or simply Ranjith, was arrested on Tuesday evening in Kerala. The arrest follows allegations of sexual assault by a female actor during the filming of a movie in January. The complaint was lodged with Kochi City Police on Monday after the actor accused Ranjith of luring her into a caravan and attempting to sexually assault her. On Wednesday morning, the Spirit director was sent to a 14-day judicial custody.
Arrest details
Ranjith was apprehended from Idukki district
The complainant's statement was recorded at the Women's Police Station on Monday, initiating the legal process. The police acted swiftly and discreetly after the complaint was filed. Ranjith was apprehended from Idukki district and was then held in Thodupuzha. Officials transferred him to Kochi for further proceedings. Authorities have reportedly handled this case with caution, keeping details under wraps to protect the identity of the woman involved.
Previous allegations
His name was linked to allegations of misconduct previously
This isn't the first time Ranjith's name has been linked to allegations of misconduct. He was mentioned in the Justice K Hema Committee report, which looked into harassment and abuse in the Malayalam film industry. The report painted a disturbing picture of an industry where powerful individuals often evade accountability. It also referenced instances that instilled fear and distress among those working within it, with Ranjith being one of those named.
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Also accused of inappropriately touching a Bengali woman actor
After the Hema Committee report, two individuals, one man and another woman, had filed complaints against Ranjith. Further, in 2024, a Bengali woman actor had lodged a complaint with Kochi City Police, accusing him of inappropriate touching with sexual intent during the filming of Paleri Manikyam in 2009. Following that complaint, the director had sought anticipatory bail. However, the Kerala High Court later closed the plea after police indicated that the offense could be treated as bailable.