Kerala Court Acquits Actor Dileep in High-Profile Rape Case

Court Ruling in Dileep's Case

A trial court in Kerala has acquitted Malayalam film star Dileep in connection with a 2017 case involving the abduction and sexual assault of a fellow actor, according to reports.

Ernakulam Principal Sessions Judge Honey M Varghese delivered the verdict after an extensive trial lasting nearly eight years.

In contrast, the court found six other individuals involved in the case guilty of charges including rape, conspiracy, and abduction.

The sentencing for these individuals is scheduled to be announced on Friday.

On February 17, 2017, it was reported that six men allegedly kidnapped and assaulted the actress inside her vehicle for approximately two hours, even filming the incident to blackmail her. She was later released near a film director's residence, who assisted her in contacting law enforcement.

Dileep was one of ten individuals accused, with allegations suggesting he orchestrated the attack.

NS Sunil, also known as Pulsar Suni, was identified as the main perpetrator, allegedly hired by Dileep to carry out the crime.

Investigators indicated that the alleged abduction and assault stemmed from a conspiracy aimed at intimidating and humiliating the victim.

Other accused individuals included Martin Antony, B Manikandan, VP Vijeesh, H Salim, Pradeep, Charley Thomas, Sanilkumar, and Sarath G Nair.

Most defendants faced charges under various sections of the Indian Penal Code related to criminal conspiracy, kidnapping, and gang rape, with additional sections of the Information Technology Act applied.

Dileep was charged with criminal conspiracy, intimidation, and tampering with evidence.

The trial faced delays due to the resignation of two special prosecutors and the appointment of new ones, alongside around 100 appeals filed by the prosecution, defendants, and the complainant.

During the trial, 28 prosecution witnesses reportedly changed their testimonies.

This story is ongoing and will be updated as more information becomes available.