Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith Balakrishnan has been arrested following allegations of attempted sexual assault made by an actress associated with his recent film project.
The filmmaker has been remanded to 14-day judicial custody by a local court in Kerala.
According to police officials, the arrest was carried out in connection with a complaint filed by the actress, who accused the filmmaker of misconduct during a film shoot.
Details of the Complaint
The complainant alleged that the incident occurred on a film set when she was invited to a private caravan. She stated that the filmmaker attempted to sexually assault her, prompting her to file a formal complaint with the authorities.
Based on her statement, the police registered a case under multiple sections of the law, including:
- Sexual assault
- Outraging the modesty of a woman
- Wrongful confinement
- Use of obscene gestures
The case was registered by Kochi City Police after recording the actress’s statement at a women’s police station.
Arrest and Legal Proceedings
The filmmaker was taken into custody from Kerala’s Idukki district. Authorities confirmed that the arrest was conducted with a high degree of confidentiality due to the sensitive nature of the allegations.
He was later produced before a magistrate, who ordered judicial custody for 14 days. The accused has since been lodged in Ernakulam Sub Jail.
Legal representatives for the filmmaker have indicated that a bail application will be filed in the coming days.
Previous Allegations Resurface
This is not the first time Ranjith Balakrishnan has faced such allegations. In 2024, he stepped down as chairman of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy after another actor accused him of inappropriate behaviour.
At the time, the filmmaker denied all allegations and claimed innocence. The earlier case had drawn widespread attention within the Malayalam film industry and beyond.
Ongoing Investigation
Police officials have stated that the investigation is ongoing, and further action will be taken based on evidence and witness statements. Authorities have also reiterated their commitment to ensuring a fair and impartial probe.
