Mollywood Sex Scandal: Actor Sidhique Faces Rape Charges

A rape case has been registered against Malayalam actor Sidhique based on allegations by a female actor. This follows a series of similar complaints in the wake of the Justice Hema Committee's revelations about harassment in the Malayalam cinema industry. Both Sidhique and director Ranjith have resigned from their positions following the allegations against them.

A rape case has been registered against prominent Malayalam actor Sidhique, following allegations by a female actor that he sexually assaulted her in 2016, police confirmed on Wednesday.

According to a senior police officer, an FIR under sections 376 (rape) and 506 (criminal intimidation) has been filed against Sidhique at the Museum police station. The assault allegedly took place in 2016.

This case marks the second FIR against a high-profile film personality amidst a series of sexual harassment claims surfacing in the industry, catalyzed by disclosures in the Justice Hema Committee report. Earlier, director Ranjith faced similar allegations and resigned from his position as chairman of Kerala Chalachitra Academy. Sidhique also stepped down as general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).

The Justice Hema Committee was formed by the Kerala government post the 2017 actress assault case, and its findings highlighted the extent of harassment and exploitation of women in Mollywood. In response, the state announced a seven-member special investigation team to probe these multiple allegations further.

(With inputs from agencies.)