Actor Dileep Alleges Attempt To Prolong Trial In Actress Assault Case; Claims Life "Ruined"

Dileep's Allegations of Trial Prolongation in 2017 Actress Assault Case: Malayalam cinema actor Dileep has raised serious allegations, stating that there is an attempt to prolong the trial in the 2017 actress assault case, in which he is a defendant.

Appearing before the Kerala High Court, Dileep expressed his distress, asserting that the protracted trial has ruined his life.

Crucial Evidence Probe: Memory Card At Center Of Controversy

The actor's claims came amidst the prosecution's demand for a probe into the examination of a crucial piece of evidence in the case-the memory card containing recordings of the assault. Dileep argued that this demand was a deliberate move to extend the trial indefinitely, further adding to his woes.

The 2017 incident involved the sexual assault of the actress by criminals in a moving car, with the act being recorded on their phone. The memory card later became vital evidence in the case, but a report from the State Forensic Laboratory raised concerns, stating that it was accessed multiple times while in the court's custody.

During the hearing, Dileep's lawyer, B. Raman Pillai, presented the allegations when the court was considering a petition filed by the survivor, urging an investigation into the unauthorized opening of the memory card while in court custody. The defence emphasised that prolonging the trial without valid reasons should not be allowed.

In response, the High Court inquired about the validity of any concerns arising from the checking of the memory card. The Director General of Prosecutions (DGP), T. A. Shaji, stressed the need to ensure the integrity of the footage on the memory card. The plea, in consideration of Supreme Court advocate Gaurav Aggarwal's convenience-who is appearing for the survivor-was adjourned to the 31st.