The controversy around Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith Balakrishnan is getting more serious by the day. After his arrest in an alleged sexual assault case, authorities have now stepped up the investigation with the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT).
The filmmaker is currently in 14-day judicial custody and lodged at the Ernakulam Sub Jail after being produced before a magistrate earlier this week.
SIT Steps In As Case Gains Momentum
According to officials, the case has moved beyond initial inquiry. Deputy Commissioner of Police Aswathy Gigi confirmed that an FIR was registered on March 28 following the actress’s complaint. After reviewing evidence and statements, police proceeded with the arrest.
She also stated that a Special Investigation Team has now been assigned to handle the case, indicating that authorities are treating the matter with added seriousness and scrutiny.
Ranjith was taken into custody from Thodupuzha, where he was reportedly present before being brought in for questioning.
What The Actress Alleged
The complaint comes from a young actor who was working with Ranjith on a film. In her statement, she alleged that the director called her into a caravan during the shoot and attempted to sexually assault her.
Based on her account, police have registered multiple charges, including sexual assault, outraging the modesty of a woman, wrongful confinement, and use of obscene gestures.
These are serious sections under law, and the investigation is expected to examine both on-set circumstances and supporting evidence closely.
Kerala CM Reacts
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan responded cautiously when asked about the arrest. He said he does not have full details of the case yet, especially with the Model Code of Conduct currently in force.
He added that from what he has seen so far, the legal process appears to be moving in a proper direction, but refrained from making any detailed comment on the allegations.
A Pattern That Raises Questions
This isn’t the first time Ranjith has faced such accusations.
Back in 2024, he resigned as chairman of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy after a Bengali actress accused him of harassment. That controversy triggered strong reactions within the Malayalam film industry, with several voices calling for accountability.
Ranjith had denied those claims at the time, maintaining that he was being unfairly targeted.
What Happens Next
With the SIT now involved, the investigation is likely to move faster and more thoroughly. The focus will be on verifying the complainant’s allegations, examining evidence, and building the case legally.
Meanwhile, Ranjith’s legal team is expected to move a bail application soon, which could become the next key development in this case.
For now, the situation remains fluid — but with the probe intensifying, this case is far from slowing down.
