Malayalam Filmmaker Ranjith Balakrishnan Arrested Over Sexual Assault Allegations

Ranjith Balakrishnan, a well-known Malayalam director, was arrested in Kerala after an actress accused him of sexual assault during a film shoot. This incident follows previous allegations against him, raising serious concerns within the film industry. The police operation was conducted discreetly to maintain confidentiality. Ranjith's past controversies include allegations from another actress, leading to his resignation from a prominent position in the Kerala film academy. The unfolding events have sparked discussions about safety and accountability in the entertainment sector.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 1, 2026, 01:22 IST

Ranjith Balakrishnan Arrested in Kerala

Ranjith Balakrishnan, a prominent Malayalam producer and director celebrated for films like Spirit, Thirakkatha, and Indian Rupee, was apprehended on March 31 in Kerala. His arrest occurred in Idukki following a sexual assault complaint lodged by an actress in Kochi, who accused him of inappropriate conduct during the filming of a project currently underway. The Ernakulam Central Police, in collaboration with local authorities from Thodupuzha, executed the arrest. Notably, Ranjith had previously resigned from his position as chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy in 2024 after facing harassment allegations from Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra, which he denied.

Details of the Arrest

As reported by Matrubhumi, Ranjith was taken into custody in Idukki. The police operation was carried out discreetly, as directed by the Idukki Superintendent of Police, to prevent any public disturbances. Ranjith was initially taken to the Thodupuzha police station for processing before being transferred to the Ernakulam Central Police for further investigation. The actress, who remains unnamed for privacy reasons, had previously lodged a formal complaint with the film's Internal Complaints Committee (ICC). Following their review, the ICC referred the matter to the Kerala Police for further investigation, ensuring that the sensitive details were kept confidential throughout the process.

Past Controversies Surrounding Ranjith

Before this latest incident, Ranjith had been embroiled in two notable controversies. In 2024, he faced allegations of sexual misconduct from Sreelekha Mitra, stemming from an audition in 2009. Following her accusations, which he refuted, Ranjith stepped down from his role at the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy. Additionally, in 2024, an FIR was filed against him in Bengaluru, where a 31-year-old actor accused him of sexual assault during a film shoot in December 2012. However, the Karnataka High Court dismissed the case in July 2025, terminating the legal proceedings against him.