New Delhi: Even as there is no news about the whereabouts of actor Siddique following the rejection of his anticipatory bail by Kerala High Court, it is said that a discussion was held with a senior advocate of the Supreme Court regarding filing of petition seeking anticipatory bail from the Supreme Court. It is also reported that the copy of the verdict of HC was handed over to the senior advocate.

Sources indicate that a copy of the High Court's verdict was provided to the senior advocate, who has advised that Siddique has the right to seek anticipatory bail since the police case was registered eight years after the incident in question.

It is further said that the legal team has detailed the aspects which should be highlighted in the appeal to be filed before the Supreme Court. The incident mentioned in the complaint had taken place in 2016. But, the complaint was filed and a case was registered in 2024 only. The complainant had failed to give a clear explanation regarding the delay in lodging a complaint. 

The team also would highlight the fact that Siddique has no criminal back ground and he is quite willing to cooperate with the investigation. There is no need of taking him into custody. 

Following the release of Hema Committee Report, a slew of allegations were levelled against many actors in Malayalam film industry. But, only Siddique was denied anticipatory bail, they point out. Unconfirmed reports say that  a senior advocate who had appeared for a prominent actor in Supreme Court in connection with sexual assault case would be appearing for Siddique in this case. 

 Sources within the Supreme Court indicate that if Siddique proceeds with filing an anticipatory bail petition, it could be listed without much delay. In June 2023, Chief Justice DY Chandrachud issued guidelines for prioritising emergency cases, including anticipatory bail pleas. According to these guidelines, petitions will be considered based on their importance, and anticipatory bail applications typically receive attention within one or two days.