The MeToo movement in Malayalam film industry is taking a darker turn with every passing hour. A new report has surfaced online stating that Kerala YouTuber Santhosh Varkey, popularly known as Arattannan, has been accused of sexually assaulting a transgender woman makeup artist. As per latest reports, an FIR has been registered against Arattannan and four others in in Ernakulam based on the victim’s complain.
Speaking with 24 News, the victim claimed she was approached by short film writer Vineeth with an offer of a role. The writer allegedly went to the survivor’s house along with his friends. One of them was the YouTuber and they sexually assaulted her. The FIR has named Vineeth, Alin Jose, Santhosh Varkey, Bright, and Abhilash Attayam.
They have been booked under IPC sections 377 (unnatural offences), 506 (criminal intimidation), 511 (attempting to commit offences punishable with imprisonment for life or other imprisonment), and 34 (acts done by several persons in furtherance of common intention), as well as section 18(d) (offences and penalties for anyone who harms, injures, or endangers the life, safety, health, or well-being of a transgender person) of the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.
The News Minute reported that the police is investigating the case and arrests have not been made.
The new case has added to one of the many cases that have been filed under the new wave of the MeToo Movement in Mollywood. The cases of sexual assault in the Malayalam film industry are being reported ever since the findings of the Justice Hema Committee Report were made public earlier this month. Several actresses have accused male members of the industry of harassing them. A Kerala man has also accused director Ranjith of sexually harassing him.
Disclaimer: As per legal and ethical guidelines, we generally refrain from naming victims in cases of sexual harassment or assault. The inclusion of the name in this article is based on the fact that the individual has publicly identified themselves in connection with the case. We respect the privacy and dignity of all individuals involved and urge readers to approach the matter sensitively.
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