Kochi, September 2024 – Popular Malayalam actor Siddique has gone missing following the rejection of his anticipatory bail plea by the Kerala High Court in a high-profile actress molestation case. The court’s decision, which came after the investigative team presented new, incriminating evidence, has led the police to launch a widespread search operation for the actor, raising concerns about his whereabouts and possible attempts to flee.
Lookout Notices and Surveillance at Airports
The police have taken immediate action, issuing lookout notices at all airports in India to prevent Siddique from fleeing the country. The authorities are maintaining strict surveillance on his two residences located in Kochi, one in Padamughal and the other in Aluva, both of which have reportedly shown no signs of the actor’s presence. His mobile phones have been switched off, and the last recorded activity on his phone was traced to Palarivattom, before he went incommunicado.
High Court’s Judgment and Case Developments
Siddique’s bail plea was denied by a single-judge bench headed by Justice CS Dias. The court expressed its dissatisfaction with the defense’s arguments, particularly in light of the new evidence and strong witness testimonies presented by the investigation team. According to reports, the complainant’s statements were found to be supported by solid evidence, casting serious doubts on Siddique’s innocence in the matter.
The case dates back to 2012 when the alleged incident of molestation occurred at the Mascot Hotel. The complainant had initially filed a complaint without mentioning rape, but later detailed the assault, placing Siddique at the center of the controversy. While the actor has maintained that the charges are fabricated, the court, backed by evidence presented by the public prosecutor, disagreed with Siddique’s defense.
The court’s decision was made after careful deliberation of the fresh material brought forth by the police. The new evidence has reportedly strengthened the complainant’s case, pushing Siddique into a precarious legal position.
Legal Team Plans Supreme Court Appeal
Despite the court’s verdict, Siddique’s legal team, led by senior advocate B. Raman Pillai, is expected to file an appeal with the Supreme Court soon. His son was seen visiting the law firm representing Siddique, signaling that a move to contest the High Court’s decision is imminent. The defense maintains that the charges are scripted, and they will continue to argue against the accusations in higher courts.
Actor’s Whereabouts Remain Unknown
With Siddique still missing, law enforcement officials have intensified their search efforts. While surveillance at his homes continues, authorities are monitoring all possible escape routes, fearing that the actor may attempt to flee abroad. The police have stated that there are no legal impediments to arrest Siddique, and their focus is now on locating him as quickly as possible.
The case has sparked widespread attention, not only because of Siddique’s status in the Malayalam film industry but also due to the gravity of the allegations against him. The developments in the case will be closely watched as the police continue their search and the legal battle moves to the Supreme Court.
Public and Industry Reactions
The news of Siddique’s disappearance has sent shockwaves through both the public and the Malayalam film industry. As the case unfolds, many are awaiting further updates on the legal proceedings and the ongoing search operation. While some of Siddique’s fans continue to express disbelief over the charges, others have called for justice and a fair trial for the complainant.
For now, Siddique’s fate remains uncertain, and the legal complexities surrounding the case continue to deepen. With a Supreme Court appeal likely on the horizon, this case is expected to remain in the spotlight in the coming days
