Did the Kerala HC Really Quash the Case Against Filmmaker Ranjith?
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Synopsis
In a significant ruling, the Kerala High Court has quashed the criminal case against filmmaker Ranjith, stemming from a 2009 incident involving allegations of misconduct towards an actress. This decision marks a pivotal moment in Ranjith's career, allowing him to move forward from the shadow of these serious allegations.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala High Court quashed the case against director Ranjith.
- The ruling was based on the limitation period for legal proceedings.
- Ranjith faced serious allegations dating back to 2009.
- This decision allows Ranjith to move forward in his career.
- The case emphasizes the importance of timely action in legal matters.
Ernakulam, Oct 27 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court has dismissed criminal proceedings against acclaimed Malayalam film director Ranjith, who faced allegations of attempting to outraged the modesty of an actress during a 2009 meeting.
The FIR, lodged in August 2024, accused Ranjith of inappropriately holding the actress's hand and trying to touch her with sexual intent while discussing a film at his residence.
He was charged under Sections 354 (assault or criminal force on a woman with intent to outrage her modesty) and 509 (gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman) of the Indian Penal Code.
Justice C. Pratheep Kumar granted Ranjith's request to quash the ongoing proceedings before the Additional Chief Judicial Magistrate Court, Ernakulam, citing that the case was barred by limitation.
The court highlighted that, according to the law applicable in 2009, the maximum punishment for the alleged offences was two years, and under Section 468 of the Criminal Procedure Code, the limitation period for cognisance was three years.
"The learned Magistrate was not justified in taking cognisance of the offence after a period exceeding 15 years. Under these circumstances, the proceedings against the petitioner are liable to be quashed by invoking the power under Section 528 of the BNSS," the court noted.
The high court also referenced a precedent in Johnson Alexander v. State by CBI (Crl. A. No. 1478/2010) to support its decision.
Previously, the court had dismissed Ranjith’s anticipatory bail petition, observing that the alleged offence was bailable at the time of the incident.
With this ruling, all ongoing proceedings against the director related to the 2009 case are now terminated.
Following the emergence of these allegations, Ranjith, a highly successful director, producer, writer, and actor, stepped down as Chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy and has since kept a low profile.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach this case with impartiality. The Kerala High Court's decision to quash the case against Ranjith emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal limitations while addressing serious allegations. This ruling serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding such cases in the entertainment industry.
NationPress
21/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the allegation against Ranjith?
Ranjith was accused of attempting to outrage the modesty of an actress during a meeting in 2009.
What did the Kerala High Court decide?
The court quashed the criminal proceedings against Ranjith, citing the case was barred by limitation.
What sections of the law were invoked?
Ranjith was charged under Sections 354 and 509 of the Indian Penal Code.
What is the significance of the court's ruling?
The ruling highlights the importance of legal limitations and the implications of lengthy delays in bringing allegations to court.
How has Ranjith responded to the allegations?
Following the allegations, Ranjith resigned from his position as Chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy and has maintained a low profile.
