SIT files chargesheet against actor M Mukesh in alleged rape case, cites digital evidence

The Special Investigation Team (SIT) has reportedly filed a chargesheet against Malayalam actor M Mukesh in an alleged rape case.

According to Hindustan Times, the chargesheet, submitted at the Ernakulam Judicial Magistrate Court, includes digital evidence such as WhatsApp chats and emails between Mukesh and the complainant. Investigators have also gathered circumstantial evidence and witness statements to support the charges.

According to the SIT, Mukesh has been charged under multiple sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), including Section 376 (rape), a non-bailable offence, along with Section 354 (assault with intent to outrage modesty) and Section 509 (insulting the modesty of a woman). The complainant, a female colleague from the Malayalam film industry and a native of Aluva, Ernakulam, alleges that the assault occurred in 2011 at a hotel room in Wadakkanchery during the production of Naatakame Ulakam. She claims Mukesh physically assaulted her, pushed her onto the bed, and later made promises regarding her membership in the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).
The chargesheet comes after a lengthy investigation, with the SIT citing digital conversations and other evidence that reportedly substantiate the allegations. The case was originally filed at the Maradu police station, and Mukesh has denied all charges.
With the chargesheet now filed, legal proceedings are expected to continue in court, where Mukesh’s defense is likely to challenge the allegations.
On the work front, Mukesh was last seen in the film ‘Oru Anweshanathinte Thudakkam’ for which ETimes gave a rating of 3 out of 5 and our review reads, “The film starts with some good writing and storytelling, but it becomes a bit loose as the film progresses. Cinematography by Vivek Menon and editing by John Kutty are kept basic, without gimmicks, which is a relief and works for this style of narration. Nishad does a good job in the lead role, playing a senior cop, but the film could have merited from a bigger star presence. All the actors have done a solid job, but there is the issue of the film getting bulky with too many of them. It is good to see Vani Vishwanath back on screen with the old spunk.”