Ranjith Arrested In Sexual Harassment Case: Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith has been arrested in connection with a sexual harassment complaint filed by an actress, with police initiating action after recording her confidential statement.
According to a report by Asianet News, the arrest was carried out by the Ernakulam Central Police based on directions from senior officials. He was taken into custody after his vehicle was intercepted in Thodupuzha. The police team has since proceeded to Kochi with him for further procedures.
Actress Alleges Assault Attempt During Shoot
The complainant, a young actress who was associated with a film being directed by Ranjith, has alleged that he attempted to sexually assault her during the film’s shooting schedule. As per the latest details reported by Asianet News, she stated that she was called into a caravan on set, where the alleged incident took place. The location of the alleged incident has been identified as a shooting site in Fort Kochi, and the incident is said to have occurred in January.
The actress reportedly stated in her complaint that she had to undergo counseling following the incident due to mental trauma. Her confidential statement was recorded at a Women’s Police Station in Ernakulam a few days prior to the arrest, following which police proceeded with legal action.
Reports further suggest that, anticipating possible arrest, Ranjith had attempted to move towards Idukki before being intercepted by the police in Thodupuzha.
The complaint was initially submitted to senior police officials, including the Director General of Police, and was also shared with the Special Investigation Team.
As per a report by Mathrubhumi.com, the actress had first approached the Internal Complaints Committee linked to the film’s production before the matter was escalated to the police.
The case has also drawn attention to earlier allegations against the director. Previous complaints, including one from a Bengali actress and another from a young man alleging misconduct, had led to cases being registered in the past. Further investigation into the present case is ongoing.
