‘False case will be proven’: Director Ranjith sent to jail as remand report reveals key details

Kochi: Details from the remand report in the sexual assault case involving director Ranjith have been reported, outlining the sequence of events as alleged by the complainant. According to the report, the incident is said to have taken place on January 30, with the allegation that inappropriate behaviour occurred inside a caravan.

The report also states that the confidential statement of the complainant has been recorded as part of the investigation. Police officials have cited previous cases linked to the director in the remand report and expressed concerns that granting bail could potentially lead to tampering with evidence.

Bail hearing and court proceedings

Ranjith’s bail plea is scheduled to be heard by the Judicial First Class Magistrate Court around 11 am. During the proceedings, the court may also be informed about his health conditions, including a prior liver transplant and spinal surgery.

The case is currently under judicial review, with the court expected to consider both the prosecution’s arguments and the defence’s submissions while deciding on bail.

Film organisations and industry response

In the wake of the case, film industry organisations are reportedly considering action against the director. Ranjith is associated with organisations under FEFKA, and discussions are underway regarding his continuation in these bodies.

Industry representatives have indicated that he may be kept out of organisational roles until the court delivers its verdict. They have also stated that the complainant had not approached the internal grievance redressal committee prior to the legal complaint, and that they became aware of the issue only after his arrest.

Response and allegations

Ranjith, while being taken to the sub-jail, reportedly stated that the case would be proven false. Sources close to him have claimed that the complaint may be linked to resentment over his removal from a film project, alleging that he had been replaced due to performance-related reasons.

It has also been claimed by associates that another assistant director was present at the time of the alleged incident. However, these remain assertions from the defence side and are part of the ongoing discourse surrounding the case.

Government and ministerial remarks

Kerala’s Cultural Minister Saji Cheriyan stated that the government has not extended protection to the director in previous allegations and that legal action was taken whenever complaints were raised earlier. He also noted that the individual was removed from the post of Academy Chairman following earlier issues.

The minister emphasised that any such allegations, if proven, would not be tolerated, and reiterated that authorities had acted in accordance with the law in past instances.

The case continues to draw attention due to its legal implications, involvement of the film industry, and ongoing court proceedings. With the bail hearing underway, further developments are expected as the judicial process progresses.