Kochi: Soon after the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court acquitted actor Dileep in the 2017 actress assault case, actor and activist Rima Kallingal posted a brief but pointed message on social media, declaring: “Always. More stronger than ever, now.”

The post, which also carried a phrase translating to “with her”, was widely interpreted as a renewed expression of solidarity with the survivor.

Rima has been one of the most vocal supporters of the actress throughout the eight-year-long legal battle, and her message appeared within minutes of the verdict being announced at 11 a.m. on Monday.

The Verdict

The Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court on Monday acquitted actor Dileep (P. Gopalakrishnan) of the criminal conspiracy charge, holding that the prosecution had failed to prove Section 120B (criminal conspiracy) against him.

However, the court convicted six accused, including prime accused N.S. Sunil alias Pulsar Suni, for abducting and sexually assaulting the actress on 17 February 2017.

Those convicted are:

Pulsar Suni

Martin Antony

B. Manikandan

V.P. Vijeesh

H. Salim (Vadival Salim)

Pradeep

The court found that the prosecution had successfully established their direct involvement in the crime. Sentencing will be pronounced on Friday, 12 December 2025.

Three others — Charly Thomas, Sanilkumar, and Sarath G. Nair — were also acquitted.