Actor Dileep has been acquitted in a pivotal turning point in the Kerala actress assault case. The Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court, which delivered the verdict at 11 a.m., ruled that the prosecution failed to establish that Dileep conspired to commission the sexual assault.As reported by 24 News, although the actor, listed as the eighth accused, faced severe charges including gang rape conspiracy and hiring the assault team, the court stated there was no legally sustainable evidence to prove the allegations. Dileep arrived at the court early in the morning to attend the pronouncement of the verdict. Reportedly, Dileep is expected to address the media soon.
Accused 1 to 6 found guilty
While Dileep was acquitted, the court delivered a strong ruling against the first six accused, stating that their involvement in the crime was proven beyond doubt.Pulsar Suni, Martin Antony, Manikandan, V.P. Vijish, H. Salim, and Pradeep, all part of the gang that carried out the assault, have been found guilty of gang rape, kidnapping, and criminal conspiracy.The prosecution had argued that the attack was carried out as part of a “quotation” operation, during which the actress was abducted inside a moving vehicle, assaulted, and filmed. With this verdict, responsibility for executing the crime has been placed squarely on the first six accused.Meanwhile, Dileep fans outside the courthouse celebrated the judgment by distributing laddoos and cheering the actor’s acquittal.
Long-awaited closure
For the unversed, the incident took place on February 17, 2017, when the actress was kidnapped while travelling to Ernakulam for a shoot.The case saw eight years of high-profile investigation, witness testimonies, controversy, and public debate.Disclaimer: This report is a journalistic account of a recent court development. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy based on available information, this is not a substitute for the official court order or legal advice. The final ruling, which will be published by the court, is the definitive source of information. This article serves as a report on the current status of the case and should not be considered legal guidance.
