The Kerala High Court has granted bail to Dhinil Babu, an assistant director from Ernakulam, who was arrested in a case alleging he outraged the modesty of a woman after promising her a role in an upcoming film starring actor Dulquer Salmaan.
The Allegations and Arrest
According to the prosecution, the incident took place on October 11. The complainant stated that Dhinil Babu invited her to the Fore Castle Building in Kochi around 7 pm, where the office of Wayfarer Films Pvt Ltd is located. Wayfarer Films is a production company owned by Dulquer Salmaan. Babu allegedly offered her a role in a forthcoming film during this meeting.
Upon her arrival, the accused reportedly took her to a separate room where he is said to have molested her. The woman filed a formal police complaint on October 13, leading to the registration of a case. After his pre-arrest bail plea was dismissed, Dhinil Babu was arrested on December 3 and has remained in judicial custody since.
Defense and Court's Bail Decision
In his defense, Dhinil Babu has claimed he is a victim of false implication. He has alleged that the complaint was a deliberate attempt to extort money from him through blackmail. The court, however, considered the period he had already spent in custody.
Taking into account that the petitioner had been in custody since December 3, the bench decided to grant him relief. The bail was approved subject to a set of stringent conditions, though the specific details of these conditions were not immediately disclosed in the initial reports.
Industry Implications and Next Steps
This case has sent ripples through the Malayalam film industry, highlighting ongoing concerns about the misuse of power and the safety of aspiring artists. The involvement of a production house linked to a major star like Dulquer Salmaan has brought significant media attention to the proceedings.
The investigation into the matter is expected to continue, and the legal process will now move forward with the accused out on bail. The court's decision emphasizes a balance between the seriousness of the allegations and the legal principle of liberty pending trial.
