KOCHI – The Principal District and Sessions Court in Ernakulam on Monday acquitted prominent Malayalam actor Dileep in the 2017 abduction and sexual assault case involving a leading actress. The court, however, found accused 1 to 6 including prime accused Pulsar Suni guilty of rape, molestation and related offences. Sentencing for the convicted individuals will be announced on December 12.

The February 2017 assault sent shockwaves through the Malayalam film fraternity after the survivor, a well-known female actor, was abducted and sexually assaulted in a moving car in Kochi. The crime drew national attention, especially once allegations emerged that Dileep had conspired in the attack.

Investigators identified Sunil Kumar, known as Pulsar Suni, a driver associated with the film industry, as the prime accused. During the assault, he allegedly told the survivor he was executing a “quotation,” indicating a pre-planned attack. The investigation later suggested a wider conspiracy intended to intimidate and humiliate the actress, ultimately naming Dileep and nine others as accused.

After an eight-year-long trial marked by dramatic twists, shifting testimonies, and intense media scrutiny, Judge Honey M Varghese delivered the long-awaited verdict on December 8. The court cleared Dileep of all charges, bringing a crucial chapter of the case to a close while leaving the Malayalam film industry divided and deeply introspective.

The conviction of the first six accused marks a significant milestone in one of Kerala’s most high-profile criminal cases, which has shaped discussions around gender, power, and accountability in Indian cinema. Prosecutors and defence teams are now preparing for the next stage as the court moves toward sentencing.