The Kerala police are investigating the case, which involves charges of sexual harassment and outraging the modesty of a woman in two separate incidents.
Published Oct 15, 2024 | 3:13 PM ⚊ Updated Oct 15, 2024 | 3:30 PM
Jayasurya. (X)
Malayalam actor Jayasurya, who has been called for questioning by the Kerala police at the Cantonment police station in Thiruvananthapuram, in connection to the sexual harassment case, described himself as a “living martyr” on Tuesday, 15 October, asserting that he has been falsely accused in a rape case.
He strongly denied the allegations, stating that the charges were fabricated and that he did not even feel the need to seek anticipatory bail.
The actor’s legal troubles stem from a complaint lodged by a female colleague from Aluva.
The Kerala police are investigating the case, which involves charges of sexual harassment and outraging the modesty of a woman in two separate incidents.
Jayasurya expressed concern about the broader issue of false accusations, highlighting the potential impact on individuals and families who may not have the same platform to defend themselves as he does.
He warned that such allegations when made without basis, could have far-reaching consequences for many lives.
In September, the actor addressed the issue in an open letter, which he shared on his social media accounts. In the post, Jayasurya expressed his gratitude to those who wished him on his birthday and supported him during this difficult period.
He also clarified that he had been in the USA for the past month due to personal commitments.
“During this time, two false allegations on the grounds of sexual harassment were made against me. They have shattered me, my family, and everyone close to me,” Jayasurya wrote.
He added, “I hope one realises that facing a false accusation of harassment is just as painful as the harassment itself. A lie always travels faster than the truth, but I believe the truth will finally prevail.”
The charges against Jayasurya stem from complaints made by two women following the release of the Justice Hema Committee Report, which highlighted issues of sexual misconduct in the Malayalam film industry.
The first complaint was filed by a female actor from Kochi, who accused Jayasurya of misbehaving with her near a restroom during a film shoot at the Kerala secretariat.
Registered by the Cantonment police, this case is being pursued under IPC sections 354 (outraging the modesty of a woman), 354A (sexual harassment), and 509 (insulting the modesty of a woman).
A second complaint was lodged by a female actor from Thiruvananthapuram, who alleged that Jayasurya sexually assaulted her on a film set in Thodupuzha, Idukki district. This case has been transferred to the Thodupuzha police for further investigation.
(Edited by Sumavarsha Kandula, with inputs from Dileep V Kumar)
