Renowned Director Ranjith Arrested Over Sexual Assault Allegations
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Key Takeaways
Kochi, March 31 (NationPress) Renowned film director Ranjith was apprehended on Tuesday following an alleged sexual assault accusation made by a young actress. This incident marks a notable turn in a case that has been treated with remarkable discretion by law enforcement.
The Ernakulam Central Police initiated the investigation, with a specialized team led by Kochi’s Deputy Commissioner of Police executing the arrest, reportedly under the guidance of senior officials, including the Ernakulam Range Inspector General and the Idukki Superintendent of Police.
Ranjith was detained after authorities tracked his vehicle's location in Thodupuzha.
He is presently in the custody of the Thodupuzha police and is anticipated to be transferred to Kochi police for further legal proceedings.
The complainant, a young actress currently collaborating with Ranjith on a film, claims that he tried to sexually assault her during the shooting.
Initial reports suggest that the alleged misconduct transpired on set, where he purportedly exhibited sexually inappropriate behavior.
The film, under Ranjith’s direction, was in production in Kottayam and Kochi, with the incident reported to have taken place in Kochi.
The actress had previously lodged complaints with the Director General of Police and other authorities. Her confidential statement was recorded at a Women’s Police Station two days prior, prompting the police to act swiftly.
The First Information Report was registered discreetly under Section 376 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at the Udayamperoor police station.
Ranjith, known for his versatility as a director, actor, and acclaimed writer, has faced earlier accusations from a Bengali actress and another case involving unnatural sexual assault, both of which were reportedly resolved.
Previously, when prior allegations emerged, he was serving as the chairman of the Kerala State Chalachithra Academy and resigned amid the scandal. Ranjith is also recognized for his affiliation with the Communist Party of India (Marxist). In 2021, the party contemplated fielding him from a Kozhikode seat, his hometown, but eventually abandoned the plan.