Malayalam Actor Mukesh M Booked On Rape Charge After Actress' Complaint

#MeToo In Mollywood: A fresh case has been filed against Malayalam actor and ruling CPI(M) MLA M Mukesh amid the ongoing #MeToo movement in the Malayalam film industry. As reported by PTI, A rape case has been registered following a female actor's allegation that he sexually assaulted her years ago, police said on Thursday.

Mukesh M accused of rape by Malayalam actress

An FIR under IPC 376 (rape) was registered against the actor Mukesh at Maradu police station in Kochi city on Wednesday (August 28) night, a police officer said. The case was registered under the IPC as the offence allegedly occurred before the new Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita came into force, he said.

This is the second case filed against the actor after Minu Muneer, who raised sexual assault allegations against several actors including him. This is also the third FIR against a high-profile Malayalam film personality following allegations of sexual harassment against various directors and actors in the wake of revelations in the Justice K Hema Committee report.

What did Minu Muneer accuse Mukesh M of?

Minu alleged that actor Mukesh misbehaved with her during the filming of the movie Calendar. When she resisted his advances, Mukesh allegedly used his influence to reject her membership application in the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).

Mukesh M denies all reports of sexual misconduct

In a lengthy statement issued in retaliation, the actor issued a press release asserting his innocence. "In response to the allegations raised against me and other film industry colleagues, I welcome the ongoing investigations. A fair and transparent inquiry is crucial to uncover the truth behind the accusations being discussed in the public domain," he said. "As both an actor and a public representative, I hold a deep responsibility towards society. Coming from a family with a rich theatrical tradition, I am perhaps more capable than most of understanding the pain and concerns of those in the arts," he added.

Mukesh alleged that Muneer had previously sought financial assistance and attempted to blackmail him. "This group, which has been persistently blackmailing me for money, has now turned against me at this opportune moment," Mukesh stated. He has called for a thorough and transparent investigation to clear his name.