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The Supreme Court of India, on October 22, 2024, extended the interim anticipatory bail granted to Malayalam actor Siddique in a sexual assault case. This decision comes amidst a high-profile investigation into allegations of widespread sexual harassment within the Malayalam film industry. The court's decision to extend the bail was made after a request from Siddique's legal team, who sought additional time to prepare a response to the Kerala police's request for custodial interrogation. The police, in their application, highlighted the gravity of the allegations and the need for Siddique's cooperation in the investigation.
The case against Siddique stems from a report by the Justice Hema Commission, which investigated rampant sexual harassment within the Malayalam film industry. The commission's findings revealed a deeply entrenched culture of abuse, with powerful individuals using their influence to exploit aspiring actors and actresses. The report described the industry as a “mafia” where victims often feared speaking out due to the powerful influence of their alleged perpetrators. This fear of retaliation and the power imbalance within the industry are central to the police's argument for custodial interrogation.
The police specifically mentioned the victim's reluctance to come forward initially, citing threats and intimidation from Siddique. They argued that the victim's decision to report the incident was heavily influenced by the Justice Hema Commission report, which provided a platform for victims to speak out against abuse. The police also claimed that Siddique, despite claiming willingness to cooperate, had provided evasive and inconsistent answers during questioning. They further highlighted his failure to provide access to social media accounts and electronic devices that could potentially offer evidence related to the case. The police emphasized the need for custodial interrogation to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation into the allegations against Siddique.
The Supreme Court's decision to grant the bail extension underscores the complex legal and social issues surrounding sexual harassment cases in India. The court's judgment reflects the delicate balance between protecting the rights of the accused and ensuring a fair and effective investigation. This case is likely to generate further debate about the challenges faced by victims of sexual assault in speaking out and seeking justice, particularly in industries where power dynamics can significantly hinder their ability to do so.
Source: Supreme Court extends pre-arrest bail for Malayalam actor Siddique in sexual assault case