Director Denies Allegations, Claims Blackmail Attempt
Malayalam film director VK Prakash has approached the Kerala High Court seeking anticipatory bail following allegations of sexual harassment leveled against him by a woman. The case stems from the recent publication of the Justice K Hema Committee Report, which highlights the working conditions of women in the Malayalam film industry.
The bail plea is expected to be mentioned before Justice CS Dias of the Kerala High Court today.
Prakash, along with other prominent film figures including actors, directors, and production controllers, is facing accusations of sexual misconduct after the public release of the Justice Hema Committee report on August 19.
The allegations against Prakash were made by a scriptwriter, who claimed she was subjected to sexual harassment in 2022 during a meeting with the director at a hotel in Kollam. She has reportedly filed a complaint with the Director General of Police (DGP).
Prakash has strongly denied the accusations, claiming they are part of a blackmail scheme.
In his anticipatory bail plea, Prakash states, “The petitioner is absolutely innocent of the charges alleged and has been falsely implicated with reckless allegations, intended only to blackmail and extort money.” He further alleges that the same individual has made similar accusations against another producer in an attempt to extort money.
Amid a growing wave of allegations against various individuals in the Malayalam film industry, a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has been formed to investigate these cases. Actors Mukesh and Siddique, along with director Ranjith, are also among those facing allegations.
Prakash expressed concerns that the complaint against him may result in formal charges under Section 354 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), which pertains to sexual harassment. To avoid potential arrest, he has sought anticipatory bail.
“Since there was a publication of a derogatory sexual molestation allegation against the petitioner, he apprehends that there is a likelihood of him being implicated in a crime involving an offence under Section 354 of the Indian Penal Code,” the plea states.
Prakash’s legal team includes advocates Babu S Nair, Smitha Babu, PA Rajesh, Pranav, KP Dhaneesh, and Siddharth Karun Pisharody, who are representing him in the matter.
(With inputs from agency)
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