The Supreme Court of India has granted anticipatory bail to Malayalam actor Siddique in connection with a rape case filed against him. This decision comes after the actor approached the apex court seeking protection from arrest, following allegations of sexual assault by a woman.
Background:
The case was registered in 2023 after a woman accused Siddique of raping her under the pretext of marriage. The actor, known for his prominent roles in the Malayalam film industry, denied the allegations and approached the Supreme Court after his anticipatory bail plea was rejected by the lower courts.
Court’s Rationale:
The Supreme Court, in its order, observed that there was no immediate threat of the actor fleeing the investigation process and considered his cooperation with the authorities as a key factor in granting bail. The court also took into account the lack of prior criminal history of Siddique and the nature of the charges leveled against him.
Existing Measures:
While the anticipatory bail has been granted, the court has imposed several conditions on Siddique, including appearing before the investigating officer as required. The court has also directed that no coercive action be taken against him unless necessary.
Conclusion:
This ruling allows Siddique to avoid immediate arrest, providing him with legal protection while the investigation continues. The case remains under investigation, and further legal proceedings will determine the outcome based on the evidence presented.