Another #MeToo Case: Vijay Babu Detained By Kochi Police For Sexual Assault
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JUNE 28,2022
Vijay Babu, a Malayalam actor, was detained by Kochi police on Monday in connection with a sexual assault involving a young actress. He was granted bail later that day after complying with certain requirements and making a deposit of 5 lakhs. Let's take you through the entire case.
Vijay Babu, who is he?
Vijay Babu is a well-known Malayalam industry producer, actor, and a businessman. He is the founder of a film production house named Friday Film House. Vijay began his career in the entertainment sector as a manager for several television networks. In Dubai, he then followed his entrepreneurial goals. In 2013, he made his producing debut with the comedy-drama Zachariayude Garbhinikal. His performances in the Aadu series, Mr. Fraud, Double Barrel, Pretham, and Velipadinte Pusthakam are well renowned. Vijay also held a key position on the executive committee of Malayalam cinema's premier film association, the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA). The actor is married to Smitha and the couple has a son who is settled in Dubai.
What is the case against Vijay Babu?
Two complaints were filed against Babu: one for assaulting the young actress and the other for disclosing the victim's identity, which is illegal in India.
The actor was accused of harassing a young actress for months on end under the guise of marriage and lead movie roles earlier in April of this year. When the accusations were made public, the actor refused to them all while he went live on Facebook from Dubai. He asserted that they were in a mutually beneficial relationship. He confronted the victim's name in the live camera in the heat of the moment and unintentionally built another case against himself.
He was detained by the Kochi police on Monday, but later that day, after completing certain conditions, he was granted bail. The police granted limited custody for seven days between June 27 and July 3, as stated in the court ruling. He may be held in custody between the hours of 9 am and 6 pm during the specified time for questioning. The court, while granting him anticipatory bail, had warned Babu against defaming the complainant or her family members, especially through social media. He is currently barred from leaving Kerala.
What is AMMA's Decision
Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) is an Indian organization for actors and actresses who work in Malayalam movies. Vijay Babu is the executive member of the organization. His suspension was requested by numerous members in the wake of the sexual harassment case. As the case is being handled in court, the AMMA told the media on Sunday that they will not be kicking Vijay out of the organization. According to the AMMA's announcement, Vijay would face consequences depending on the court's ruling.