On June 24, 2024, the High Court of Kerala delivered its much-anticipated verdict in the high-profile assault case involving Malayalam film actors Dileep and Pulsar Srinivasan (Suni). The courtroom atmosphere was charged with tension as both defendants exhibited starkly contrasting behaviors throughout the judgment proceedings.
Dileep, the lead actor accused of orchestrating the brutal attack on fellow actress Sidharthan in 2017, was observed whispering prayers and frequently glancing upward, reportedly seeking divine intervention as the judge began reading the 78-page judgment. His anxious expressions and fidgeting hands reflected the gravity of the moment, with sources indicating he anticipated a substantial jail term.
Meanwhile, co-accused Pulsar Suni maintained a surprisingly conversational tone, engaging in animated discussions with his legal team even as the judge detailed the grievous charges. Court observers noted his relaxed demeanor, with occasional smiles and laughter that starkly contrasted with the somber environment. This behavior drew quiet disapproval from other defendants and legal representatives present.
The verdict confirmed Dileep’s conviction under Sections 120B (criminal conspiracy) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code, sentencing him to 15 years in prison. Suni, previously convicted in 2018 for his direct involvement in the attack, received an additional 10-year sentence under similar charges. Both were also fined ₹1 crore each, with the court emphasizing the need to deter future crimes against women in the entertainment industry.
During the proceedings, prosecuting officials highlighted the brutal nature of the assault, where Sidharthan was attacked post-movie shoot near Keralagiri forests. The court particularly condemned the conspiracy element, noting how Dileep allegedly coordinated the attack to settle professional scores. Defense arguments focusing on technicalities and lack of direct evidence were rejected, with the judge stating, “The chain of events unmistakably points to a pre-planned offense targeting a vulnerable colleague.”
The judgment has sparked widespread reactions across Kerala’s film industry. While actors and activists praised the ruling as a milestone for victim justice, others expressed concern about potential appeals prolonging the legal process. Legal experts noted the case sets a precedent for conspiracy charges in celebrity-driven crimes. Dileep’s supporters gathered outside the court, with some arguing the sentence exceeded expectations given past lenient rulings in similar cases.
Sidharthan, present in the courtroom, remained composed but emotionally drained post-verdict. Through her counsel, she requested privacy while acknowledging the significance of the outcome. The case has reignited discussions about systemic issues within regional film industries, including power imbalances and treatment of younger actors.
As Dileep and Suni were led to custody, the trial concluded a seven-year legal battle marked by dramatic turns – from initial police raids to delayed testimony and Supreme Court interventions. The High Court’s decisive stance underscores evolving judicial attitudes toward organized crimes targeting individuals, particularly women, within influential social circles.
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