2017 Kerala Actress Assault Case: Convicted Men Move High Court Challenging Sessions Court Verdict

Two men convicted in the 2017 sexual assault case involving a prominent Malayalam film actress have approached the Kerala High Court challenging their convictions and sentences imposed by the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court earlier this month.

The convicts have filed separate criminal appeals seeking to set aside the trial court’s verdict dated December 12. Along with the appeals, they have also moved petitions requesting suspension of their sentences and release on bail while the cases are pending before the High Court.

High Court Flags Procedural Issues

According to reports, the appeals filed by the two convicts—identified as Salim and Pradeep—came up for preliminary hearing before Justice Pechu Kurian Thomas. During the proceedings, the court noted that the registry had pointed out certain procedural defects in the filings.

The High Court directed that the matters be listed again after the court vacation, granting the petitioners time to rectify the deficiencies. As a result, the appeals have not yet been taken up for substantive hearing on merits.

Trial Court Verdict

Earlier, the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court had convicted six accused in the high-profile case, holding them guilty of charges including gang rape, kidnapping, illegal confinement and criminal conspiracy. The court sentenced all six to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment.

The convicts were found guilty under Section 376(D) of the Indian Penal Code, along with other relevant provisions, including sections of the Information Technology Act. The case has drawn nationwide attention due to its gravity and the prolonged legal proceedings since the incident occurred in 2017.

Grounds of Appeal

In their appeals, Salim and Pradeep have denied their involvement in the crime, claiming they had no role in either the alleged conspiracy or the sexual assault. They argued that the prosecution failed to produce direct or prima facie evidence linking them to the offence.

The appellants have also contended that their cases raise substantial questions of law and fact, warranting a re-examination of the trial court’s findings. On these grounds, they have sought suspension of the sentence until the High Court disposes of the appeals.

What Lies Ahead

The Kerala High Court is expected to take up the appeals for detailed consideration once procedural defects are cured. The outcome of the appellate proceedings will be closely watched, given the case’s legal significance and public interest.