Actor-MLA M Mukesh Arrested in Rape Case by SIT, Released on Bail

Thiruvananthapuram: CPI(M) MLA and actor M Mukesh was formally arrested on Tuesday by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in connection with a rape complaint filed by a female actor.

His lawyer confirmed the arrest, stating that Mukesh underwent a medical examination and potency test before being released, as he had already secured anticipatory bail from a sessions court earlier this month.

Mukesh’s arrest followed his questioning by the SIT, which is probing the case. The actor arrived at the Coastal Police Headquarters at 9:45 am and was interrogated for over three hours.

Two cases have been registered against Mukesh, one by Wadakkanchery police and another by Maradu police. He was granted bail by the Ernakulam District and Sessions Court on September 5 in connection with the rape case filed by the female actor, who also alleged additional incidents of sexual assault.

Mukesh has denied the allegations, claiming they stem from his refusal to give in to blackmail attempts by the complainant.

The case against Mukesh is part of a broader investigation into allegations of sexual harassment in the Malayalam film industry, following revelations from the Justice K Hema Committee report. The report, commissioned by the Kerala government after the 2017 actress assault case, detailed the exploitation and harassment faced by women in the industry.

In response, the state government formed a seven-member SIT on August 25 to investigate these claims, involving several prominent directors and actors.