High-Profile Trials: Retired IPS Officer Reflects on Dileep Acquittal

Retired IPS officer B Sandhya discusses the challenges faced in the high-profile 2017 actress abduction case after actor Dileep's acquittal. The case, noted for its complexity and media attention, involved multiple charges and highlighted the difficulties of securing a conviction under conspiracy laws. Despite the outcome, significant impacts on the Malayalam cinema industry were acknowledged.

In the wake of actor Dileep's acquittal in the controversial 2017 actress abduction and assault case, retired IPS officer B Sandhya, who spearheaded the initial investigation, reflected on the challenges faced by the Special Investigation Team (SIT). The Kerala court's verdict, delivered on Monday, brings to light the complexities of handling high-profile cases within the film industry, compounded by the difficulty of proving criminal conspiracy under Section 120B.

Sandhya described the case as one of the most sensitive assignments of her career, highlighting the exhaustive measures taken by the team—from interrogating associates of the accused to securing vital footage and documentation. She emphasized the importance of maintaining the integrity of in-camera proceedings amidst media scrutiny and public interest.

The trial, which began in March 2018, saw extensive legal proceedings with 261 witnesses and a plethora of documents submitted. The verdict acquitted Dileep but found others guilty on several charges. Sandhya noted that while securing a conviction remains a challenge, the case has prompted significant introspection within the Malayalam film industry.

(With inputs from agencies.)