Dileep Acquitted: The Controversial Case That Shook Kerala's Film Industry
Actor Dileep's Acquittal Sparks Reactions
Ernakulam: Malayalam film star Dileep, who was found not guilty in the 2017 abduction and sexual assault case involving an actress, claimed on Monday that the allegations were fabricated by the police and ultimately failed in court.
As he exited the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court, Dileep remarked, "The fabricated narrative from the police did not hold up in court."
With a smile, he greeted his supporters amidst heavy security, accompanied by a team of lawyers dressed in traditional black robes as they escorted him to his vehicle.
Outside the courthouse, his fans celebrated by distributing sweets, while similar festivities occurred near his home in Aluva.
Navigating through the crowd proved challenging for Dileep before he finally addressed the media waiting for his comments.
He launched a fierce critique of the investigation, alleging that he had been intentionally set up.
"The police collaborated with the main accused and others to concoct a story aimed at damaging my reputation and future," he stated.
Dileep further claimed that the conspiracy against him originated with his ex-wife, asserting, "The plot against me began with Manju, and a senior police official was involved. They manipulated a segment of the media to fabricate unfounded stories."
Expressing his gratitude towards his legal team, he said, "I am thankful to everyone who supported me. My heartfelt thanks to my lawyer, Raman Pillai, to whom I will always owe a debt of gratitude. Many other advocates also stood by me, and I appreciate them deeply. Today is a day of immense joy for me."
When questioned about the identities of the conspirators, Dileep responded, "It's up to you (the media) to uncover that," before closing the door of his car and departing.
Earlier that day, around 9:30 a.m., Dileep arrived in Ernakulam with his brother and another accused, first visiting his lawyer's office before heading to court.
All ten accused were present in court as mandated when the verdict was delivered.
The court concluded that the prosecution failed to prove the charge of criminal conspiracy beyond a reasonable doubt, resulting in the acquittal of Dileep and three others, while the first six accused were found guilty.
This case dates back to February 2017, when a well-known Malayalam actress was kidnapped and sexually assaulted in a moving vehicle while en route to Kochi.
The incident sent shockwaves throughout Kerala and sparked significant discussions regarding women's safety and the misuse of power within the Malayalam film industry. While the main perpetrator remains convicted, the conspiracy allegations against Dileep have now unraveled. Women's rights groups expressed their disappointment with the ruling, and the prosecution is expected to review the judgment for a potential appeal.
Meanwhile, the victim stated she is currently not inclined to comment, while her close friend, dubbing artist Bhagalekshmi, remarked that the verdict was anticipated. "I had predicted this four years ago," she added.