Kochi: The High Court has closed the anticipatory bail petition filed by Malayalam director Ranjith relating to a sexual assault case filed by a Bengali actress with the Ernakulam Town North Police.
Senior advocate P. Vijaya Bhanu, representing Ranjith, argued that the alleged incident took place in 2009, when the offence in question was considered bailable. The prosecution agreed with this point. Following this, Justice CS Dias passed the order, which means that Ranjith should be granted bail even if he is arrested in connection with the case.
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Actress's complaint against Ranjith
The complaint, submitted to the City Police Commissioner, alleged that in 2009, during a discussion about a film, Ranjith summoned the actress to his flat in Kadavanthra, Kochi. There, he is accused of inappropriately touching her with sexual intent.
The complaint further alleged that Ranjith, while discussing his film Paleri Manikyam: Oru Pathirakolapathakathinte Katha, held the actress's hand tightly and made unwelcome advances. The actress reportedly fled the flat and returned to her hotel. She later confided in scriptwriter Joshy Joseph, who helped her secure a return ticket. The complaint was filed within the jurisdiction of the station where the incident occurred.
The actress raised her allegations following the release of the Hema Committee report. The outcry in the film and cultural community led to Ranjith’s resignation from his position as Chairman of the Chalachitra Academy.
Published: 05 Sept 2024, 09:04 am IST
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