Bhagyalakshmi slams Dileep’s acquittal; Says ‘We will never believe he is innocent’; Questions court’s handling of survivor

Dubbing artist Bhagyalakshmi has come out strongly against the sessions court verdict acquitting actor Dileep who was the eighth accused in the 2017 actress assault case.

As reported by Manorama Online, speaking to the media at the survivor’s home in Thrissur, Bhagyalakshmi said the judgment did not come as a surprise to her. According to her, the survivor suffered far more during the trial than during the horrific night eight years ago. Bhagyalakshmi remarked that despite the evidence presented and the testimonies submitted, the outcome was predictable, adding that she had voiced the same concern years ago.

Bhagyalakshmi reacts to the verdict

Bhagyalakshmi stressed that no amount of public declarations of Dileep’s innocence would convince her or those standing with the survivor. “Anyone can understand why this verdict came,” she said, hinting at deep systemic failures. She recalled how the survivor was subjected to relentless questioning nine consecutive days of interrogation that left her mentally exhausted.

According to Bhagyalakshmi, there was not a trace of empathy shown to the survivor during the proceedings. She also pointed out that the court experience inflicted even more trauma than what the survivor faced on the street the night of the assault.

Resignation from FEFKA as strong message

Following the verdict, Bhagyalakshmi resigned from the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA), protesting the organisation’s decision to reinstate Dileep.

FEFKA, a key body representing 21 unions in the Malayalam film industry, took this step after the acquittal. Bhagyalakshmi said she could not remain part of an organisation that welcomed back someone who had faced such serious allegations, especially when the survivor continued to fight for justice. She reaffirmed her unwavering support for the survivor, saying she would stand by her until her last breath and that further steps would be discussed soon.

Disclaimer: This report is a journalistic account of a recent court development. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy based on available information, this is not a substitute for the official court order or legal advice. The final ruling, which will be published by the court, is the definitive source of information. This article serves as a report on the current status of the case and should not be considered legal guidance.

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