Ernakulam: A Judicial First Class Magistrate Court in Ernakulam on Wednesday heard film director Ranjith interim bail application in a sexual assault case, with the prosecution opposing relief and the court deferring orders to April 10 (Friday).

The public prosecutor argued that such a plea is not legally sustainable at this stage and urged the court to reject it.

During the hearing, the prosecution maintained that there was no requirement for interim bail and said the application would not stand in law. The Magistrate noted that no custody application was currently before the court but indicated that both the bail plea and any prosecution request would be considered together.

The court said it would pass orders on April 10, taking up both the interim bail application and any related submissions by the prosecution if filed by then.

Police claims non-cooperation

The Magistrate had earlier issued a production warrant to secure the director’s presence, following a request from the investigating officer. The court had also permitted police to interrogate him for three days.

Investigators have informed the court that Ranjith did not cooperate during questioning, which they said hindered the collection of key evidence. It was also stated that he did not take prescribed medication while in police custody and was returned to judicial custody on the second day.

The defence, however, told the court that no police remand report is presently on record and said the director is willing to appear before investigators or the court as directed. It also submitted that, if bail is granted, conditions can be imposed in line with established legal principles.

Charges under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita

Ranjith faces allegations under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including wrongful confinement, sexual harassment, acts intended to insult a woman’s modesty, and use of criminal force with intent to outrage modesty.

The court is set to decide on the interim bail plea and any custody-related application on April 10.