Kochi: One of the most debated aspects during the trial of the Kerala actress assault case was the large-scale defection of witnesses. Several film stars who had given crucial statements during the investigation later retracted in court. In total, 28 witnesses changed their earlier versions, creating major setbacks for the prosecution.

The most high-profile reversals involved actors Bhama and Siddique, whose change of stance generated huge media attention. Their initial statements to police suggested clear hostility between actor Dileep and the assaulted actress. Both had reportedly told investigators that Dileep publicly threatened the actress during rehearsals for a stage programme organised by the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).

Bhama and Siddique had also stated that Dileep was angry over the survivor revealing his relationship to Kavya Madhavan. However, during the trial, both denied knowledge of such incidents and refused to confirm their earlier statements before the court. At the request of the prosecution, the two were subsequently declared hostile witnesses. Several others in the Malayalam film fraternity also changed their statements.

In light of this, the prosecution previously asked the court to cancel Dileep’s bail, alleging that he was influencing witnesses throughout the trial.