Second Case Filed Against Director Ranjith for Sexual Assault

Second Case Filed Against Director Ranjith for Sexual Assault

Kerala police have registered a second sexual assault case against well-known film director Ranjith. This development follows a complaint by an aspiring male actor, bringing further attention to the issue of sexual misconduct in the Malayalam film industry.

Details of the Second Complaint

The latest complaint was filed in Kozhikode by an aspiring male actor who alleges that Ranjith sexually assaulted him in 2012. According to the actor, Ranjith had invited him to a hotel in Bangalore for an audition. During the audition, Ranjith allegedly forced the actor to strip naked and then sexually assaulted him. The actor, initially believing this was part of the audition process, realized the gravity of the situation the following morning when Ranjith offered him money. The actor later filed a formal complaint with the Director General of Police (DGP), which is now under investigation by a Special Investigation Team (SIT).

Previous Allegations and Resignation

This case comes on the heels of another complaint filed by Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra. She accused Ranjith of making inappropriate advances during a discussion about a film role in 2009. Following these allegations, Ranjith resigned as the chairman of the Kerala State Chalachithra Academy. Mitra, who lodged her complaint with the Kochi City Police, described how Ranjith clutched her hand and attempted to touch other parts of her body with sexual intent during a meeting in Kochi.

Justice Hema Committee Report

The accusations against Ranjith have gained even more significance in the wake of the Justice Hema Committee report, which was made public earlier this month. The report, which was prepared by a three-member panel headed by a former judge of the Kerala High Court, exposes widespread harassment, exploitation, and ill-treatment of women in the Malayalam film industry. The 235-page report, submitted to the Kerala government in December 2019, highlights how a small group of male producers, directors, and actors dominate and exert control over the industry, creating a hostile environment for women professionals.

Bengali Actress Sreelekha Mitra Withdraws from Kochi Seminar

In the wake of these allegations, Sreelekha Mitra has withdrawn from an upcoming seminar in Kochi. Mitra cited the intense media scrutiny and the emotional toll of the situation as reasons for her decision. In an Instagram post, she detailed the challenges she has faced, particularly after the recent public release of the Justice Hema Committee report. She expressed regret for not being able to attend the seminar but emphasized the need to take time for herself.

Director Joshy Joseph’s Response

Malayalam film director Joshy Joseph also responded to the controversy. He mentioned that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) had visited his house and that he had provided a detailed account of events. Joseph acknowledged the crisis facing the Malayalam film industry and emphasized the need for transparency and accountability in addressing these allegations.

Conclusion

The allegations against Ranjith and the broader revelations from the Justice Hema Committee report have shone a spotlight on the pervasive issue of sexual harassment within the Malayalam film industry. As the investigations continue, these cases highlight the urgent need for systemic change and the importance of creating a safer environment for all professionals in the industry.