Ernakulam: Actor Dileep was acquitted on Monday in the 2017 actress assault case, prompting jubilant celebrations from his fans. Outside Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court, supporters distributed sweets and set off fireworks. Similar festivities were held outside Dileep’s residence in Aluva, where fans cut cakes featuring the actor and his wife, Kavya Madhavan. Social media reflected the widespread jubilation.

Ernakulam Principal Sessions Judge Honey M Varghese cleared Dileep, who was the eighth accused in the case. The court found the first six accused guilty, including notorious criminal Pulsar Suni. In total, ten individuals were charged in the case. The sentences for the convicted accused are scheduled to be announced on Friday.

Celebration highlights

Fans maintained a strong presence around the court premises, distributing sweets such as laddus to those present. Outside the actor’s home, celebrations included cake-cutting ceremonies. Fireworks punctuated the celebrations, signalling the intensity of public support for Dileep.

Concerns raised

Despite the festive atmosphere, critics have raised concerns about the message such celebrations send in the context of a sexual assault case, highlighting potential implications for societal attitudes toward victims.