Actor from his latest directorial project files complaint alleging assault on film set; director faces multiple charges including wrongful confinement and obscene gestures.
KOCHI — Prominent Malayalam filmmaker and producer Ranjith was arrested by Kerala police on Wednesday following a sexual assault complaint filed by a young actress who is part of his latest directorial venture, officials said.
The alleged incident reportedly took place during the shooting of the film. In her complaint, the actress accused the director of attempting to assault her at the film location.
Based on the statement, police registered a case under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code, including outraging the modesty of a woman, sexual assault, wrongful confinement, and making obscene gestures.
According to a Thodupuzha police official, Ranjith was initially brought to the Thodupuzha police station before being transferred to Kochi. He was then taken to Ernakulam General Hospital by Ernakulam Central Police for a mandatory medical examination as required under legal procedure.
Prior Allegations
This is not the first time the veteran filmmaker has faced accusations of misconduct. In 2024, Ranjith resigned as chairman of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy after Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra made harassment claims against him. He had denied the allegations at the time.
The earlier controversy had sparked widespread reactions across the Malayalam film industry, with several actors, directors, and industry figures publicly calling for his resignation.
The investigation is ongoing, with authorities yet to comment on further legal proceedings.
