Kochi: Soon after actor Dileep was acquitted in the high-profile 2017 actress assault case, director and close friend Nadirsha publicly celebrated the verdict. Taking to Facebook, Nadirsha wrote, “Thank God, Satyameva Jayate…” and shared a photograph of himself embracing Dileep, signalling relief and support following the long-running trial.

The Verdict

The Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court on Tuesday acquitted Dileep, who was the eighth accused in the case, after ruling that the prosecution had failed to prove criminal conspiracy against him.

However, the court convicted the first six accused, including prime accused Pulsar Suni, for abducting and sexually assaulting the actress on 17 February 2017. Their bail has been cancelled, and sentencing is scheduled for December 12.

The convicted are:

Sunil N. S. (Pulsar Suni) – First accused

Martin Antony – Second accused

B. Manikandan – Third accused

V. P. Vijeesh – Fourth accused

H. Salim (Vadival Salim) – Fifth accused

Pradeep – Sixth accused

Even as Nadirsha expressed joy over Dileep’s acquittal, actor and activist Rima Kallingal posted a sharply contrasting message, writing: “Always. More stronger than ever, now.” Her post, which included a phrase meaning “with her”, was widely viewed as an expression of renewed solidarity with the survivor.