Kerala police set to act after convict’s video reveals survivor’s identity in 2017 actress assault case

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Police are poised to register a criminal case following the widespread circulation of a social media video that allegedly discloses the identity of the survivor in the 2017 actress assault case. The decision comes in response to a formal complaint lodged by the survivor to Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, seeking immediate action against those responsible for sharing content that violates her privacy and triggers renewed harassment.

The controversial video was posted by Martin Antony, a convict currently serving a 20-year sentence for his role in the assault. In the footage, Antony claims that the incident was fabricated as part of a conspiracy involving film personalities and asserts that actor Dileep had no involvement in the crime. The video surfaced just days after a trial court verdict acquitted Dileep and several other accused, a timing that has drawn sharp criticism from observers who view it as an attempt to influence public opinion.

During a meeting at Cliff House on Tuesday, the survivor expressed deep concern over the online abuse generated by the video and her dissatisfaction with the trial court's recent judgment. Chief Minister Vijayan assured her that the state government stands firmly by her side and is preparing to file an appeal against the acquittal of Dileep and the other accused. The survivor reaffirmed her commitment to the legal battle, stating she would fight until justice is delivered.

Legal experts have noted that revealing the identity of a sexual assault survivor is a strictly punishable offence under Indian law, regardless of the perpetrator's intent. Police sources indicate that they are currently examining the digital evidence and the specific legal provisions applicable to the complaint. Authorities are expected to take further action once the preliminary assessment of the video and its circulation is complete, noting that the allegations made by Antony in the video were already examined and rejected during the trial.

(Inputs from IANS)