Actor Siddique approaches Kerala HC seeking interim bail in rape case

The case against Siddique was initiated after the Thiruvananthapuram police filed an FIR based on the complaint of an actress.

Earlier this week, Siddique, along with the entire 17-member executive committee, resigned from his post as general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) after several actresses made serious allegations of sexual abuse against prominent personalities of Malayalam cinema, including director Ranjith and actors Siddique and Mukesh.

Apart from Siddique, actors like Mukesh, Jayasurya, Edavela Babu, Maniyanpilla Raju and director Ranjith were also accused of sexual assault.

After the Hema Justice Committee report revealed shocking details of crimes against women in the industry, allegations of sexual harassment have emerged against prominent personalities in the Malayalam film industry.

The report, with its shocking accounts of harassment, exploitation and mistreatment of female professionals, shook the entire industry.

The report, released on August 19 (with names of witnesses and accused redacted), points out that the Malayalam film industry is controlled by about 10 to 15 male producers, directors and actors who dominate and exert their control over the industry.