Is Rapper Vedan Evading Arrest in a Rape Case?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Lookout notice issued against rapper Vedan due to a rape allegation.
- Authorities fear he may flee the country.
- The case involves allegations of sexual exploitation from 2021 to 2023.
- Investigation is being conducted under the supervision of local police.
- Impact on the entertainment industry with concert postponements.
Kochi, Aug 11 (NationPress) The Kerala Police have issued a lookout notice for the well-known rapper Vedan in connection with a rape case, amid concerns that he might attempt to flee the country to avoid arrest.
This action follows intelligence reports indicating that the musician could be planning an international trip.
With this lookout notice activated, Vedan can be apprehended at any airport or exit point from the country and handed over to the authorities.
Officials stated that this measure was taken to guarantee that the accused stays within the jurisdiction of the investigative teams until the case reaches its resolution.
The situation arose from a complaint made by a female doctor, resulting in the registration of a rape case against the artist on July 30, after which Vedan has been evading authorities.
In her statement to the police, she alleged that she was sexually exploited by Vedan from 2021 to 2023.
The relationship began when she was a medical student in 2021, and on five separate occasions, including locations in Kozhikode, Kochi, and a friend's residence, she claims to have been exploited under the guise of a promise of marriage.
Additionally, she mentioned that they cohabited for a few days.
Regarding financial matters, she reported that in 2021, prior to his first album release, Vedan lacked funds and she provided him with Rs 15,000.
She also financed his train travel, contributing Rs 8,300.
The two met initially via social media.
She noted that in 2023, he expressed disinterest, leading to their breakup, which caused her significant mental distress. After the split, she made several attempts to reconnect but was unsuccessful.
Following the registration of the case, Vedan applied for anticipatory bail at the Kerala High Court, with the hearing scheduled for August 18.
The investigation is being supervised by the Thrikkakkara Assistant Commissioner of Police, with the Infopark Station House Officer currently in charge.
Vedan's abrupt disappearance has already impacted the entertainment industry.
On Saturday, the organizers of the Olam Live music concert at Bolgatty Palace in Kochi had to postpone the event due to police plans to arrest the rapper if he attended.
The show, which generated considerable public interest, will be rescheduled, according to the organizers.
Police sources confirmed that Vedan has been in hiding since the case was filed.
Given his popularity within Kerala’s independent music scene and his substantial social media following, law enforcement agencies are under pressure to locate him promptly.
Officials emphasized that the lookout notice serves as a precautionary measure, aimed at preventing any chance of the accused fleeing and ensuring he engages with the legal process.
“Our priority is to guarantee that the investigation proceeds unimpeded and that the accused is available for questioning at all times,” stated a senior officer.