Siddique in trouble? Fresh evidence strengthens case against Indian actor in sexual assault probe

Dubai: Fresh evidence has reportedly emerged against Malayalam actor Siddique in his ongoing sexual assault case, strengthening the prosecution’s claims.

Months after his arrest following a rape complaint filed in August 2024, the Special Investigation Team (SIT) has allegedly gathered substantial material indicating his involvement.

According to a report by Manorama Online, the investigation, which spanned over a month and a half, has led authorities to conclude that Siddique is culpable in the alleged assault.

The SIT claims the actor has not cooperated with their inquiries, accusing him of misleading investigators, destroying electronic devices, and deleting his social media accounts to obstruct the probe.

The report also states that Siddique allegedly threatened the complainant, telling her that her accusations would not be believed due to her lack of prominence in the industry. Despite these alleged actions, the SIT has expressed confidence in the evidence they have gathered and is awaiting approval from senior officials before formally presenting their findings in court.

The allegations stem from an incident in January 2016, when a female actor accused Siddique of luring her to the Mascot Hotel in Thiruvananthapuram under the pretense of discussing a film role before sexually assaulting her. Based on her complaint, an FIR was registered under Sections 376 (rape) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).

Following the allegations, Siddique was arrested in 2024 but later released on bail in accordance with a Supreme Court order granting him protection. He also stepped down from his role as general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) after the complaint became public.

The chargesheet reportedly includes witness testimonies and digital evidence confirming Siddique’s presence at the hotel at the time of the alleged assault. Additionally, a doctor who treated the complainant in Kochi following the incident has provided testimony supporting her claims.

The SIT has indicated that they are prepared to submit their findings to the court, pending approval from higher officials within the Crime Branch. Further legal proceedings are expected to unfold as authorities move toward presenting the case formally.