MLA-actor Mukesh booked for alleged sexual assault of actress

Kochi: Days after an actress accused the ruling CPI(M) MLA and actor Mukesh of sexual assault, a rape case was filed in Kerala against him. The Marad police have opened a case against the actor-turned-politician, accusing him of rape and "use of criminal force against women with intent to outrage her modesty," among other non-bailable charges.

According to police, the incident took place prior to the new Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita coming into effect, which is why the case was filed under IPC sections. Charges are filed under IPC sections 376 (1) which deals with rape, section 452 dealing with house trespass with the intent to hurt or assault someone, section 509 dealing with intent to insult a woman's modesty by using words, gestures, or acts, section 354 dealing with assault or use of criminal force against a woman with the intent to outrage her modesty, the New Indian Express reported.

The opposition and apparently even some of Mukesh's own party members are putting increasing pressure on him to resign, which has further escalated the matter. Given the grave charges against him, CPI leader and general secretary of the National Federation of Indian Women (NFIW), Annie Raja, has also called for his resignation.

Days after the publication of the Hema Committee report, which included startling information regarding the systemic sexual abuse against women in Malayalam cinema, the charges against the seasoned actor began to circulate. The actress, who accused Mukesh of sexual assault, claimed that he had assaulted her at a Kochi hotel while making a promise to cast her in a film.