Kochi, March 31: Film director Ranjith was arrested on Tuesday following an alleged sexual harassment complaint filed by a young actress. The case has been handled unusually discreetly by the police.
The Ernakulam Central Police registered the case, and a special team led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in Kochi apprehended the accused. Reports suggest that this action was taken under the direction of senior officials, including the IG of the Ernakulam range and the Superintendent of Police in Idukki.
Based on mobile location tracking, the accused’s vehicle was intercepted and taken into custody in Thodupuzha. He is currently in the custody of the Thodupuzha police and will be handed over to the Kochi police for further action.
The complainant is a young actress currently working on a film directed by Ranjith. She alleged that the director attempted sexual harassment during the shooting.
Initial information indicates that the incident occurred on the film set, where Ranjith reportedly exhibited inappropriate and objectionable behavior. The film is being shot in Kottayam and Kochi, with the incident said to have taken place in Kochi.
The actress had submitted her complaint to the Director General of Police and other officials. Subsequently, her confidential statement was recorded at a women’s police station two days ago, prompting swift police action.
An FIR was registered under Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code at the Udayamperoor police station, which has been kept confidential. The arrest of director Ranjith has sparked significant discussion surrounding the case.
Ranjith is known as a director, actor, and writer. He has previously faced allegations from a Bengali actress and has been involved in another case concerning unnatural sexual offenses.