Honey Rose filed a complaint accusing the businessman of making sexually inappropriate and derogatory remarks that insulted her dignity as a woman.
Published Jan 08, 2025 | 12:28 PM ⚊ Updated Jan 08, 2025 | 2:42 PM
Businessman Boby Chemmannur (Wikimedia Commons)
The Kerala Police took businessman Boby Chemmannur into custody on Wednesday, 8 January, in Wayanad, following a complaint filed by Malayalam film actor Honey Rose accusing him of sexual harassment. Chemmannur is being transported to Kochi for questioning.
Actor Honey Rose (@honeyroseinsta)
The arrest follows a formal complaint lodged by Honey Rose at Ernakulam Central Police Station on Tuesday, where she accused the businessman of repeatedly making sexually inappropriate and derogatory remarks that insulted her dignity as a woman.
Based on the complaint, a case was registered under Section 75 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), which pertains to offensive and inappropriate remarks. The investigation is underway.
Prior to his arrest, Chemmannur denied any wrongdoing.
“I had compared Honey Rose to Kunti Devi from the Mahabharata, and that is true. At that time, she did not file a complaint. I only learned of it now,” he told ONManorama.
“There was no wrong intention behind it. Calling someone Kunti Devi is not inappropriate. Stars are often adorned with jewellery at such events, as has happened many times before. Neither Honey nor I found anything wrong with it, so I don’t understand why this complaint is being filed now. I believe it was a misunderstanding,” he added.
In a social media post on Tuesday, Honey Rose announced her decision to take legal action against Chemmannur and his supporters, stating, “I have filed a complaint against your continuous sexual and derogatory remarks. I will also file similar complaints against your like-minded supporters. You may trust in the power of your wealth, but I trust in India’s legal system.”
This follows her previous complaint against 30 individuals who made sexually explicit and derogatory comments in response to one of her social media posts.
The actor had earlier expressed her strong opposition to such behaviour, emphasising her commitment to adhere to Indian legal norms in her public appearances.
She explained that while she welcomed constructive criticism or light-hearted comments about her attire or personality, she strongly condemned vulgar remarks.
Honey Rose’s statement has sparked widespread support from fans and fellow public figures, with many commending her for taking a stand against online harassment and advocating for the rights and dignity of women.
Meanwhile, the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) expressed their solidarity with Honey Rose by sharing her statement.
Honey Rose told South First,”I feel so relieved now. Yesterday, I met the chief minister and he assured me of full support. I also met ADGP Manoj Abraham, who promised strict action against him. This arrest was expected.”
Speaking about the emotional toll, Honey said, “No one knows the trauma my family and I have been through for the past few months.”
When asked why she didn’t respond immediately at the event, she explained, “If I had reacted on the spot, he would have twisted the situation and refused to accept his mistake.” She added, “I also had to maintain decorum on a public stage.”
Describing the impact, Honey said, “It hurt us deeply—more than social media bullying.” She revealed that after the program, “We spoke to his manager immediately, where he made an offensive comment about my body, and decided not to cooperate with the brand anymore.”
“But they later invited me for another inauguration in Ernakulam,” she continued. “We said no and clearly explained the reason.”
Honey also pointed out his repeated attempts to cross boundaries. “He started following me intentionally—attending events I was part of and doing collaborations, even using my name on Instagram,” she said.
“I consulted my lawyers and finally decided to move legally,” Honey stated firmly. “Even if he apologizes, I will go ahead with the case.”
She concluded by saying, “The support from WCC and AMMA has been overwhelming and has doubled my confidence.”
(Edited by Dese Gowda)
