Ernakulam (Keralam) [India], April 1 (ANI): Keralam Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Wednesday commented on the arrest of Malayalam director-producer Ranjith, stating that he is not fully aware of the details of the case.

Ranjith was taken into custody from Thodupuzha after a young actress accused him of an alleged sexual assault during a film shoot. He was later produced before a magistrate and sent the Malayalam director to judicial custody for 14 days. Ranjith is currently lodged in Ernakulam Sub Jail.

During a press conference, the Chief Minister said he does not have 'precise information' about the case yet and has only read about it like others.

While responding to questions, Vijayan said, 'At the moment, I am not fully aware of the details regarding the issue, especially since the Model Code of Conduct is in force and matters are being handled accordingly. I do not have precise information about the complaint right now; like you, I have only read about it.'

The Keralam Chief Minister further added that no formal complaints have been submitted directly to his office so far. He noted that, in the absence of such complaints, the legal process appears to be moving forward appropriately.

'As of now, no formal complaints have come to me regarding the action taken. In the absence of such complaints, it appears that the proceedings are moving forward in a proper manner,' he said.

According to police, the complaint was filed by a young actress who alleged that the incident took place at the shooting location. Based on her statement, a case has been registered under multiple sections, including sexual assault and outraging the modesty of a woman.

Meanwhile, Ranjith's lawyer has said that they are preparing to move a bail plea in court.

In 2024, he stepped down as the chairman of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy after harassment claims were made by Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra, though he had denied those allegations at the time.

The earlier controversy had sparked strong reactions across Keralam's film industry, with several actors, directors, and industry members publicly calling for his resignation. (ANI)