Kochi, July 30, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Kerala High Court on Thursday expressed strong displeasure over the delay in completing the investigation into cases related to the alleged media trial of actor Dileep in connection with the 2017 actress assault case.
Justice Jobin Sebastian orally warned the state government that the matter would be viewed seriously after the court was informed that its earlier direction to expedite the probe had not been complied with.
“Why are you not complying with the directions of this court? Matter will be viewed very seriously… This is not fine,” the judge observed after the Public Prosecutor sought additional time to receive instructions from the investigating agency.
The court was hearing a petition filed by Dileep seeking a time-bound investigation into FIRs registered following his complaint that confidential details of the actress assault trial were allegedly leaked and publicised, leading to a sustained media trial.
On February 20, the High Court had directed the state to complete the investigation within two months. After the deadline was not met, the court had last month warned that contempt proceedings could be considered against officials for non-compliance.
Despite the warning, the investigation remains pending, prompting the latest observations from the Bench. The matter has now been posted for further hearing on August 5.
Dileep, who was the eighth accused in the 2017 actress assault case and accused of being the alleged mastermind, was acquitted by the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court last year.
The Kerala government has challenged the acquittal before a Division Bench of the High Court. The Bench is also hearing appeals filed by convicted accused against their conviction and sentences.
The Division Bench has already called for trial court records while examining the appeals. Earlier this month, it rejected the pleas seeking suspension of sentences filed by prime accused Pulsar Suni and co-convicts Vadival Saleem and Pradeep.
Thursday’s proceedings were limited to Dileep’s complaint regarding the alleged leakage of confidential trial proceedings and subsequent media coverage.
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