Actor Parvathy Thiruvothu has emerged as one of the most prominent voices responding to the acquittal of Malayalam star Dileep in the long-running actor assault case, expressing anguish and disbelief at the verdict and reigniting a wider debate on justice, accountability and power within the film industry. In a sharply worded public statement, Parvathy described the developments as a “carefully crafted screenplay” unfolding with painful cruelty, questioning what justice now truly means for survivors.
Her emotional response struck a deep chord across Kerala, drawing strong reactions from fellow actors, activists and members of the Women in Cinema Collective. Many echoed her concerns, stating that the verdict should not be seen as closure but as a reminder of how fragile the pursuit of justice can be, especially when powerful figures are involved. Social media platforms were flooded with messages of solidarity for the survivor, along with anger and disappointment over the outcome of the case.
The acquittal, delivered by a sessions court in Ernakulam, marked a dramatic turn in a legal battle that has gripped the state since 2017. The original case involved the abduction and sexual assault of a prominent woman actor and had triggered statewide outrage at the time, leading to unprecedented discussions on safety, gender rights and abuse of influence within the entertainment industry. Over the years, the case became a symbol of the struggle for accountability in powerful spaces.
Amid the growing public reaction, the Kerala government confirmed that it would appeal the acquittal in a higher court. Officials stated that the judgment would be examined thoroughly before proceeding with the legal challenge, underlining that the administration remains committed to pursuing justice for the survivor. The announcement was welcomed by many who view the appeal as a crucial step in restoring public confidence in the judicial process.
Reactions within the Malayalam film industry have been mixed. While several artistes have expressed disappointment and concern over the verdict, industry bodies have adopted a more cautious approach. The Association of Malayalam Movie Artists stated that it respects the court’s decision and urged that the legal process be allowed to take its full course. This restrained stance has drawn both support and criticism from the public.
For supporters of the survivor, the acquittal has been a devastating setback after nearly eight years of legal struggle marked by delays, twists and intense scrutiny. For others, it has reopened uncomfortable questions about how justice functions in cases where fame, wealth and power intersect. The verdict has also revived broader anxieties about the risks faced by survivors who choose to speak out.
As the state prepares to take the case to a higher court, the coming months are expected to be closely watched. For Parvathy Thiruvothu and many others who have spoken out, the issue of Dileep sexual assault case is no longer confined to a single courtroom decision but reflects a larger fight for dignity, accountability and the right to be heard.
Eight years after a crime that shocked Kerala, the case remains unfinished. With fresh legal proceedings ahead and renewed public scrutiny, the outcome of the appeal may prove pivotal not only for those directly involved, but for the future of justice and safety within the state’s film industry.
