Thiruvananthapuram, September 27, 2024 – In a significant development, the Kerala Police have issued a lookout notice for renowned Malayalam actor Siddique following the rejection of his anticipatory bail application by the Kerala High Court. The actor is facing serious allegations of rape and criminal intimidation, which he vehemently denies, claiming false implication.
Background and Allegations
The case against Siddique, a former General Secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), was registered by the Museum Police in Thiruvananthapuram on August 27, 2024. The complaint was filed by a young actor who accused Siddique of sexually assaulting her at a hotel in Thiruvananthapuram on January 28, 2016, following a movie preview. The charges include rape (Section 376) and criminal intimidation (Section 506) of the Indian Penal Code.
Legal Proceedings and Police Action
The Kerala High Court denied Siddique’s anticipatory bail plea on September 24, 2024, leading to heightened police efforts to locate him. The actor’s whereabouts have been unknown since the court’s decision, prompting the police to issue a lookout notice on September 26, 2024. This notice has been circulated to all district police chiefs in Kerala and communicated to other states’ police chiefs, as there are suspicions that Siddique may have fled the state.
Current Status and Investigation
The Kerala Police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) has intensified its efforts to trace Siddique, with increased vigilance at airports and border check posts. Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Siddique continues to maintain his innocence and has lodged a counter-complaint against the complainant, alleging a conspiracy to falsely implicate him.
Industry Impact and Public Reaction
The case has sent shockwaves through the Malayalam film industry, especially following the release of the Hema Committee report, which highlighted issues of sexual harassment within the industry. Siddique’s resignation from his role in AMMA has further fueled public and media scrutiny.
As the investigation progresses, the Kerala Police remain committed to bringing the truth to light. The legal community and the public await further developments in this high-profile case, which continues to unfold with each passing day.