Did Karnataka HC Dismiss a Sexual Assault Case Against Malayalam Filmmaker Ranjith?
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Synopsis
In a recent ruling, the Karnataka High Court dismissed a sexual assault case against Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith Balakrishnan, citing significant factual inaccuracies and delays in the complaint. This case raises questions about the integrity of such allegations within the film industry, as Ranjith maintains the claims are baseless and driven by malice.
Key Takeaways
- Karnataka High Court quashed the case against filmmaker Ranjith Balakrishnan.
- Significant factual inaccuracies were identified in the complaint.
- The alleged incident occurred before the hotel existed.
- Ranjith argues that the allegations are maliciously fabricated.
- The case raises broader questions about credibility in sexual misconduct allegations.
Bengaluru, July 4 (NationPress) The Karnataka High Court has officially dismissed a sexual assault case brought against Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith Balakrishnan by a young aspiring actor. A bench led by Justice S. R. Krishna Kumar delivered this verdict after the filmmaker's legal representative highlighted significant factual errors present in the allegations.
Senior counsel Prabhuling Navadgi argued in court that the case was fabricated, noting that the incident was alleged to have occurred at the Taj Hotel near Bengaluru International Airport, which only opened in 2016. However, the complaint claimed the assault took place in 2012, four years prior to the hotel's existence.
The complainant claimed that the filmmaker had invited him to the fourth floor of the Taj Hotel and coerced him into engaging in unnatural acts. Furthermore, allegations included that nude photographs of the complainant were taken and forwarded to an actress in Kerala.
Authorities had charged Ranjith under Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 66(E) of the Information Technology Act, 2000. Subsequently, he sought relief from the Karnataka High Court to annul the FIR filed against him.
Previously, a bench led by Justice M. Nagaprasanna had halted the criminal proceedings against the filmmaker, citing substantial inconsistencies within the complaint.
The court also took into account the significant delay in filing the complaint, as Justice Nagaprasanna pointed out the complaint was lodged in 2024, while the supposed incident occurred in 2012, marking a 12-year gap without any justification for the delay.
Considering these elements, the court concluded that this case exemplified a false complaint.
The filmmaker has consistently asserted that the claims against him are unfounded and concocted with malicious motives.
Ranjith is a prominent figure in the Malayalam film industry and has faced allegations of sexual misconduct, particularly in light of the revealing Justice K. Hema Committee report regarding women's conditions within the state film industry.
Point of View
It is crucial to approach the case of Ranjith Balakrishnan with a balanced perspective. While the court's decision highlights potential flaws in the allegations, it is essential to consider the broader implications for the film industry and to ensure all voices are heard in discussions surrounding sexual misconduct.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the basis for quashing the case?
The Karnataka High Court found significant factual inaccuracies in the allegations, including discrepancies regarding the timeline of events.
When did the alleged incident occur?
The complainant claimed the incident took place in 2012, but the venue mentioned, Taj Hotel, opened in 2016.
What charges were filed against Ranjith?
Ranjith was charged under Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code and Section 66(E) of the Information Technology Act, 2000.
What did the court consider in its ruling?
The court considered the substantial delay in filing the complaint, which was registered 12 years after the alleged incident.
How has Ranjith responded to the allegations?
Ranjith has maintained that the allegations against him are baseless and motivated by ill intent.
