Kochi, Dec 09: The Kerala government on Monday announced that it will appeal against the Ernakulam Sessions Court's verdict acquitting actor Dileep in the actress' kidnapping and sexual assault case.
Law Minister P Rajeev said the government will "stand firm on the side of the victim" and take all necessary legal steps to ensure justice.
The Ernakulam Sessions Court, which heard the case today, convicted the first to sixth accused, including the main accused Sunil NS alias Pulsar Suni. However, it acquitted the accused from 7 to 11. Actor Dileep, the eighth accused, was acquitted of all charges after the court ruled that the prosecution had failed to prove the conspiracy charge.
At every stage of the investigation and prosecution, there was close consultation with the victim and the prosecution team. Right from the beginning, we have been committed to supporting the victim and upholding her faith in the justice system. Our resolve is clear and unwavering, Rajiv said.
He said the government will decide on its further legal action after studying the entire verdict.
On February 17, 2017, actor Dileep was accused of sexually assaulting an actress. In this regard, the police arrested Dileep on July 10, 2017. Dileep was later granted bail.