Ernakulam (Kerala): In a dramatic finale to one of the state’s most high‑profile criminal cases, Malayalam film star Dileep was freed by the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court on Monday after the 2017 abduction and sexual assault allegations against the actress were dismissed.
The indictment named 10 defendants. The judge found the first six guilty—excluding Dileep—while the remaining four were cleared of wrongdoing.
The sentence for those convicted will be announced on December 12.
The prosecution did not establish criminal conspiracy beyond a reasonable doubt.
The ruling finally ends a nearly eight‑year legal saga that had captured Kerala’s attention and sparked nationwide debates over power dynamics, justice and the safety of women in the Malayalam film industry.
Dileep, who was the eighth name on the list, had been accused of orchestrating the kidnapping and assault. He maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings.
Earlier that morning, around 9:30 a.m., Dileep arrived in Ernakulam under heavy security, first stopping by his lawyer’s office before heading to the courtroom.
All ten accused were present when the judgment was read, as directed by the court.
In its decision, the court noted that the prosecution failed to produce enduring legal evidence linking Dileep to the alleged conspiracy.
Several key witnesses turned hostile during the trial, undermining the state’s case.
The defense consistently argued that the evidence against Dileep was circumstantial and uncorroborated.
The survivor, whose bravery in bringing the case to light drew national attention, was in attendance.
Women’s rights groups expressed deep disappointment, saying the acquittal highlights serious investigative shortcomings and the difficulty of securing convictions when powerful individuals are involved.
The case began in February 2017, when the actress was abducted and sexually assaulted in a moving vehicle on her way to Kochi.
The incident shocked Kerala and triggered widespread protests among the film community and civil society.
After the verdict, relief was visible among Dileep’s family and supporters outside the courthouse, while activists pledged to keep fighting for justice through legal and democratic channels.
The prosecution is expected to scrutinize the judgment closely before deciding whether to appeal.
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