The Kerala High Court has granted anticipatory bail to Malayalam actor Balachandra Menon in a sexual assault case filed 17 years after the alleged incident, following the release of the Justice Hema Committee Report.
Justice P.V. Kunhikrishnan, while allowing the bail plea, emphasized that men, like women, also have a right to dignity. While delivering the order in open court, the judge remarked:
“It is an admitted fact that the alleged incident occurred in 2007. It is also undisputed that the victim filed the complaint after a delay of 17 years. Furthermore, it is acknowledged that the petitioner is a renowned cine artist, known for his work as an actor, director, and scriptwriter, having directed around 40 films and received two National Awards. He has also been conferred the Padma Shri. Based on a statement made by a lady—17 years after the alleged incident—this case was registered. While the investigation is ongoing, it is essential to remember that the right to dignity is not limited to women; men too are entitled to it. Granting bail to the petitioner is appropriate in the interest of justice.”
Menon contended that the complaint was fabricated and filed solely to tarnish his reputation.
Previously, the court had granted interim bail to Menon, noting the absence of a plausible explanation from the complainant for the significant delay in filing the FIR in 2024, nearly 17 years after the alleged crime.
The plea was filed by Senior Advocate M. Ramesh Chander, along with Advocates Bejoy Joseph P.J., Govind G. Nair, Balu Tom, and Bonny Benny.
Case Details:
• Case Number: Bail Appl. No. 9058 of 2024
• Case Title: Balachandra Menon v. State of Kerala
