• Source:JND
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Ranjith, a Malayalam filmmaker, was recently taken into custody by the police and placed under judicial custody for 14 days due to allegations of attempted sexual assault. Advocate Mohammed Siyad, his attorney, came under fire for serving on the movie's Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) on the sets where the event took place. In the midst of a dispute about his membership in the ICC and following the filing of a bail plea, the advocate has resigned.

Ranjith's lawyer told OnManorama, "As the legal advisor to numerous production houses, I have been a member of several Internal Complaints Committees, including the ICC for the film cited in this case. It is important to note that the complainant never raised any allegations of harassment during the shooting, nor did she ever approach the ICC."

Ranjith's lawyer resigned just hours after submitting a bail request on Ranjit's behalf. According to the plea, the actress filed a harassment action because she and the director had arguments throughout the production.

ALSO READ - Two-Time National Award Winner Director Ranjith Arrested On Sexual Assault Charges

Ranjith's ICC Membership Controversy

In a lengthy statement, Women in Cinema Collection described the accusations against Ranjith as 'grave'. They criticised the entertainment industry and questioned its power systems, claiming that they are no longer able to conceal the reality.

The statement read - "Yet another grave allegation by a young actress has shaken Kerala. This time, the accusation is against director Ranjith. It is deeply distressing to realise that despite High Court directives and the new cinema policy, very little has changed on the ground. Where does this audacity of perpetrators come from? From a system that simply does not function."

ALSO READ - Malayalam Filmmaker Ranjith Calls Sexual Assault Allegations 'False', Claims Innocence

"The industry can no longer hide behind ignorance or inertia. Implement ICs. Follow POSH. Prioritise safety. If cinema wishes to reflect society, it must also model a workplace that is safe, equitable and dignified for all," the statement further read.

What Are Allegations Against Ranjith?

On Tuesday night, Ranjith was placed under police custody after a female actor accused him of trying to sexually assault her on a movie set. The Kochi City authorities received the complaint. The officials responded immediately when the victim said that Ranjith tried to sexually attack her after luring her into a caravan during a shoot.


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