Malayalam actor Siddique has moved the Supreme Court for anticipatory bail after the Kerala High Court denied his pre-arrest bail in a rape case filed by a fellow actress. The High Court cited evidence suggesting his possible involvement in the alleged crime.
Today(24th Sept), The Kerala High Court denied anticipatory bail to Malayalam actor Siddique in a rape case filed by an actress, following allegations revealed after the Justice K Hema Committee Report was released on August 19. Justice C.S. Dias announced the order during proceedings, highlighting the serious nature of the claims against the actor.
The Kerala High Court criticized the government’s inaction regarding the Justice Hema Committee report exposing exploitation in the Malayalam film industry. The court instructed the SIT to report on its actions, emphasizing the state’s failure to address women’s issues. The report led to investigations and resignations, highlighting the industry’s power dynamics and gender disparities.
Today, On 5th September, The Kerala High Court decided to form a five-judge special bench to address cases related to the Justice Hema Committee report on harassment and exploitation in the Malayalam film industry, following a plea challenging the report’s release. The state government has announced a special investigation team to probe the allegations. This follows the aftermath of the 2017 actress assault case.
Today(on 4th September), The Kerala High Court has closed Ranjith Balakrishnan’s anticipatory bail plea, noting that the alleged sexual harassment offence under Section 354 IPC was bailable in 2009. Justice CS Dias highlighted that Section 354 became non-bailable only in 2013.
Actor Siddique seeks anticipatory bail in a rape case following a complaint by a female actor, amidst the “Me Too” movement in the Malayalam film industry. This legal action stems from multiple sexual abuse allegations against industry figures revealed in the Justice Hema Committee report, highlighting widespread harassment and exploitation of women professionals.
