Malayalam actress who accused actors of sexual assault moves Kerala High Court for anticipatory bail

An actress who made allegations of sexual assault against prominent members of the Malayalam film industry has moved an anticipatory bail plea before the Kerala High Court apprehending arrest though no FIR has been registered against her yet.

After the publication of the Hema Committee report in August 2024 which revealed widespread sexual abuse in the Malayalam film industry, the actress had made serious allegations against prominent members of the industry, including actors and politicians.

She had specifically accused actor and Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) Mukesh, and actors Maniyanpilla Raju, Idavela Babu, and Jayasoorya, among others, of sexual abuse.

In her plea before the High Court, the actress stated that multiple FIRs have been filed against prominent members of the film industry on the basis of her allegations and that the same has put her in the spotlight.

She claimed that she now faces a wave of false allegations aimed at discrediting her.

Her petition stated that fake news has been circulating on mainstream media and social media platforms accusing her of fabricating the abuse allegations.

According to her petition, the actress has filed several applications with police authorities in various districts in Kerala under the Right to Information Act to find out if any cases have been registered against her. However, she hasn't received any response so far.

The actress stated that she apprehends that she might be wrongfully implicated in a non-bailable offence "in connection with unknown crime".

Even though her petition makes no mention of what specific crime is being referred to, it is submited that the prosecution’s case is built on false information provided by the de-facto complainant. It is further alleged that she could be targeted due to the influence and prominence of the individuals she accused of sexual abuse.

On these grounds the actress has sought anticipatory bail from the High Court.

She is represented by advocates C Bhaskaran, and LY Sangeeth.