Kerala rapper Vedan faces new sexual harassment complaints amid rape case

Kerala-based rapper Hirandas Murali, popularly known as Vedan, is facing fresh allegations of sexual harassment even as he remains absconding in connection with an ongoing rape case.

According to official sources, two women have recently emailed complaints to the Chief Minister’s Office accusing Vedan of making sexual advances in 2020.

One complainant alleged that while she was conducting research, she met Vedan on December 20, 2020, when he allegedly attempted to sexually harass her in a room. She managed to escape but later abandoned her research, claiming she was traumatised by the incident.

The second woman stated that she was introduced to Vedan at a friend’s residence and was drawn to him because of his songs and political views. She alleged that Vedan later harassed her on multiple occasions.

Both women had previously spoken out about their experiences on social media during the Me Too movement in 2021, but decided to lodge official complaints after a recent sexual assault case was registered against him at Thrikkakara police station.

Police say Vedan allegedly assaulted a doctor multiple times between 2021 and 2023. A lookout notice has been issued after officers failed to trace him.

Meanwhile, the Kerala High Court on Monday heard arguments on Vedan’s anticipatory bail plea. The victim’s counsel submitted that he had engaged in similar behaviour with other women and that more complaints had been filed against him. Vedan’s lawyer, however, argued that the relationship was consensual and that rape charges “would not stand.”

The court will continue hearing the petition and the government’s response on Tuesday.