Renowned Malayalam Director Ranjith Balakrishnan Remanded in Police Custody Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

Kochi. Renowned Indian Malayalam film director Ranjith Balakrishnan has been remanded to police custody for three days following allegations of sexual harassment. The Chief Judicial Magistrate Court in Kochi granted the police permission on Saturday to hold him for investigation.

He faces legal action after an actress filed a serious complaint alleging that Ranjith attempted to sexually assault her inside a caravan during a film shoot. Following the First Information Report (FIR) registered on March 28 based on the actress's complaint, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) of the police has been handling the case.

After finding sufficient evidence and grounds during the preliminary investigation, the police took him into custody and presented him before the court. The court has granted the police custody until Monday evening, paving the way for further interrogation and evidence collection.

During the court proceedings, Ranjith's lawyers opposed the custody, citing his fragile health condition. Despite claims that detention would be risky due to his history of liver transplant and spinal surgery, the court prioritized the police's petition.

However, considering his health sensitivity, the court has issued strict instructions to the police to conduct a medical examination of Ranjith every 24 hours. A hearing on his bail application is expected to take place on Monday or Tuesday.

His legal counsel maintains that all these allegations are false and part of a pre-planned conspiracy, asserting his innocence. Meanwhile, the Special Investigation Team is conducting a detailed examination of film set staff, eyewitnesses, and other evidence.