Dileep Gets Major Relief in Eight-Year Case
Actress Abduction Case: Kerala Court Delivers Sensational Verdict, Dileep Acquitted After 8 Years
In a major legal development that has gripped Kerala for years, actor Dileep was acquitted on Monday in the high-profile actress abduction and assault case that shook the Malayalam film industry in 2017. The Ernakulam court ruled that the prosecution could not establish his involvement, bringing an emotional end to the actor’s eight-year-long legal battle.
As the judge pronounced the verdict, Dileep was visibly moved. Stepping out of the courtroom, he addressed the media and said the case was part of a conspiracy against him. He expressed gratitude to his legal team and thanked everyone who stood by him during this prolonged ordeal.
While Dileep walked free, the court convicted prime accused Pulsar Suni and five others, holding them guilty of kidnapping, gang rape, and sexual assault. Sentencing for the convicted individuals will be announced on December 12. Three other accused were acquitted due to insufficient evidence.
The survivor—an established actress who has also starred in several Telugu films—was present in court as the verdict was delivered. She was abducted in February 2017 while traveling in a car, held captive for nearly two hours, and subjected to a horrific assault. Investigators had alleged that Dileep orchestrated the attack over personal disputes, but the court ruled that the claim lacked solid evidence.
The verdict has triggered intense discussions across Kerala and beyond. Several actresses and women’s rights advocates voiced their disappointment over the outcome.
Actress Parvathy Thiruvothu shared a cryptic but powerful post saying, “#Avalkoppam Forever,” meaning “We stand with her,” and added, “Justice what? Now a carefully crafted screenplay unfolds.” Actresses Ramya Nambeesan and Rima Kallingal also posted messages expressing solidarity with the survivor despite the court’s ruling.
The case, which has remained one of the most talked-about incidents in Indian cinema, continues to evoke strong emotions and public debate even as the legal chapter nears closure with the pending sentencing.
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