The Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court on Thursday granted anticipatory bail to actor and CPI(M) MLA M Mukesh and actor Edavela Babu, who are facing charges of rape and sexual assault respectively. The decision was announced by Ernakulam District and Sessions Judge, Honey M Varghese, as reported by PTI.
The rape allegation against CPI(M) MLA M Mukesh was made by a female actor who also accused actors Edavela Babu, Jayasurya, and others of sexual assault. An FIR was registered against Mukesh under Section 376 (rape) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Mukesh has maintained that the accusations are a result of blackmail attempts by the complainant.
This case is part of a broader investigation into sexual harassment in the Malayalam film industry, triggered by the findings of the Justice K Hema Committee report. The report, which was released last month, revealed disturbing accounts of exploitation and mistreatment of women professionals in the industry. It highlighted the significant influence held by a small group of male producers, directors, and actors, who dominate the industry.
The Hema Committee was established by the Kerala government in response to the 2017 actress assault case. The committee’s report, submitted in December 2019, was only made public this month, prompting the government to establish a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to further investigate the issues faced by women in the industry. The report, while redacted to omit the names of witnesses and accused individuals, has brought to light a pervasive culture of harassment and exploitation within Malayalam cinema.
The granting of anticipatory bail to Mukesh and Babu has sparked further debate about the prevalence of sexual misconduct in the industry and the need for greater accountability and change. The case is expected to continue with further investigation and legal proceedings.
