Kerala High Court Upholds Men's Dignity While Granting Anticipatory Bail to Balachandra Menon
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Kochi, Dec 11 (NationPress) The Kerala High Court has granted anticipatory bail to renowned Malayalam actor Balachandra Menon in relation to a sexual assault allegation, stating that men have the right to dignity just as women do. A single-judge bench led by Justice P V Kunhikrishnan noted that the complaint was filed 17 years after the alleged incident.
"It is an established fact that the purported incident took place in 2007. It is also acknowledged that the petitioner is an esteemed cine artist, recognized as a film actor, director, and scriptwriter. He has directed around 40 films and has been honored with two national awards. The nation has recognized him with a Padma Shri. This case has emerged based on a woman’s statement, and that too, after 17 years. While the investigation is ongoing, it is crucial to remember that the rights and dignity extend to men as well. Thus, this case warrants bail for the petitioner in the interest of justice," the Court remarked.
Notably, the Court had previously granted Menon interim bail, citing the lack of a satisfactory explanation from the complainant regarding the delayed filing of the FIR in 2024, long after the alleged crime occurred.
Following the release of the Justice Hema Committee's report on the status of women in the Malayalam film industry in August, a surge of allegations targeting prominent figures within the industry ensued.
As several former actresses came forward with their troubling experiences, the police swiftly acted, registering 11 FIRs against various film personalities.
A special bench of the High Court is now monitoring the progress of the special investigation team assigned to advance the case.
