kochi News

Gut microbial imbalance can impact memory, says study

KOCHI/BRAUNSCHWEIG: A new Indo-German study has offered some of the clearest proof yet that when the gut falls out of balance, the brain suffers too especially our ability to learn and remember. Published in the journal BMC Biology, the research shows how long-term antibiotic use, unhealthy diets, stress and poor sleep can disturb the gut microbiome, setting off an inflammatory chain reaction that eventually reaches the brain. The study was led by Dr Baby Chakrapani P S of the Centre of Excellence in Neurodegeneration and Brain Health (CENABH) and Centre for Neuroscience at Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat), and Prof Martin Korte of the Technical University of Braunschweig and the Helmholtz Centre for Infection Research (HZI). The findings emerged from the doctoral research of Krishnapriya under Dr Chakrapanis guidance, as part of the Indo-German collaborative programme DSTDAAD. How the gut messes with the mind? The researchers found that when antibiotics disrupt gut bacteria a condition known as gut dysbiosis this imbalance weakens the gut barrier and triggers inflammation throughout the body. This inflammation doesnt stop at the gut. Gut dysbiosis initiates a systemic inflammatory state that does not remain confined to the gut, Dr Chakrapani said. These inflammatory cues eventually influence the brains immune cells. Inside the brain, the team observed unusual behaviour in microglia, the tiny immune cells that clean up waste and fine-tune neural connections. Under stress signals coming from the gut, these microglia became overactive. Instead of pruning only weak or unnecessary synapses, they began chipping away at healthy connections crucial for forming memories. This excessive pruning leads to observable difficulties in learning and memory tasks, Prof Korte explained. Why it matters Gut dysbiosis is increasingly common in modern life thanks to frequent antibiotic use, processed food, stress and disrupted sleep. And while most people connect gut health only with digestion, the study shows it is just as important for cognitive well-being. Maintaining a healthy gut environment is essential for the brain too, Prof Korte said. The researchers say their findings open new possibilities: could restoring gut balance reverse memory problems? Could similar gut-brain pathways be involved in neurodegenerative diseases? We are only beginning to understand how deeply connected the gut and the brain really are, Dr Chakrapani said. This study is one step towards mapping that complex relationship. For now, the message is simple: take care of your gut, and your brain may thank you for it. Inflammation alert The research found that antibiotics disrupt gut bacteria a condition known as gut dysbiosis The imbalance weakens the gut barrier and triggers inflammation throughout the body The inflammatory chain reaction eventually reaches the brain

Moms of Kochi to organise Purple Carnival, a lifestyle exhibition

This is the fourth edition of Momspo, organised by the womens collective in Kochi

Kochi-Muziris Biennale: Sixth edition of art extravaganza commences today

KOCHI: The countrys only biennale, a spectacular showpiece of Asias largest contemporary art event, is poised to enter its sixth edition, promising expansive and immersive art experiences for nearly four months from Friday by turning the Kerala port city into a site for dialogues around emerging global perspectives. The Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB) will feature 22 venues besides seven collaterals, significantly widening the socio-historical as well as political footprints of Indias new-age art exhibition, which has earned the moniker Peoples Biennale, deeply rooted in the countrys modern identity, diverse culture, and aspirations for an inclusive, democratic society. To be inaugurated by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on December 12 at 5.30 pm, the KMB-6 will run till March 31, 2026. The 110-day event hosts works by 66 artists/collectives from 25 countries, apart from a range of parallel shows. KMB-6, curated by Nikhil Chopra with HH Art Spaces, Goa, has its curatorial theme titled for the time being that embraces process as methodology. The show envisions a living ecosystem where each element shares space, time and resources amid constant engagements with each other. The opening ceremony of KMB-6 will be held at the Parade Ground in Fort Kochi at 6 pm, followed by a public concert by Shanka Tribe featuring Neha Nair, Resmi Satheesh and Shahabaz Aman. The Biennale flag will be hoisted at the nearby Aspinwall House venue at 12 noon after a chenda recital by Margi Rahitha Krishnadas. Entry fee Inaugural day: Free Adults: Rs 200 Students, senior citizens: Rs 100

Prosecution to demand three life terms for actor assault convicts in Kerala

KOCHI: The prosecution is set to seek three life terms for accused numbers one to six, who were convicted in the 2017 actor abduction case, with the Ernakulam Principal and Sessions Judge scheduled to conduct the sentencing hearing and pronounce the quantum of punishment on Friday. On December 8, the trial court found the first six accused, Sunil aka Pulsar Suni, Martin Antony, Manikandan B, Vijesh V P, Salim H aka Vadival Salim, and Pradeep guilty. The court acquitted actor Dileep, stating that the prosecution failed to establish the conspiracy charge against him. It also acquitted Charly Thomas, who had been charged with harbouring the offender; ninth accused Sanil Kumar alias Mesthiri Sanil, charged with conspiracy and aiding the crime; and 15th accused Sarath G Nair, charged with causing the disappearance of evidence. The prosecution will seek the maximum possible punishment for the accused, which is life imprisonment. The convicted accused could get life imprisonment for three major offences criminal conspiracy, gangrape, and abetment, Special Public Prosecutor V Ajakumar told TNIE. The court convicted them under sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 342 (wrongful confinement), 354 (outraging modesty), 354B (assault with intent to disrobe), 357, and 376D (gangrape) of the IPC, as well as sections 66E and 67A of the Information Technology Act. According to the prosecution, on the night of February 17, 2017, six men abducted the actor while she was travelling from her home in Thrissur to Kochi. The men held her captive in her car and drove around Kochi, while Pulsar Suni, a history-sheeter, allegedly assaulted her. Suni recorded the act on his mobile phone. Later, the accused abandoned the actor near the house of film director Lal, who helped her contact the police. An FIR was registered the same day. Ajakumar said that he would cite the Supreme Court verdict in the case Nipun Saxena vs Union of India, as it accurately reflected the prevailing social reality. The 2018 judgment stated: Unfortunately, in our society, the victim of a sexual offence, especially a victim of rape, is treated worse than the perpetrator of the crime. In the State of Punjab vs Ramdev Singh case, the Supreme Court had observed that sexual violence, apart from being a dehumanising act, is an unlawful intrusion into the right of privacy and sanctity of a female. Ajakumar added that this argument is being put forward to ensure the maximum punishment for the convicts. When asked about filing an appeal before the Kerala High Court, Ajakumar said the prosecution is awaiting a copy of the final verdict, which will be released on Friday. Once the judgment is received, they will examine the reasons for acquittal and identify grounds for appeal. 2017 Kerala actor abduction case: Probe team pins hope on higher courts Verdict letter posted from Ernakulam The police have obtained information about the sender of the anonymous letter alleging a leak of details from the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case. According to the police, the letter, sent via Speed Post, was posted by a man from a post office under the jurisdiction of the Ernakulam police station. CCTV visuals show the man, wearing a mask, arriving at the post office at 1.42 pm on December 3. He had sent 33 Speed Post envelopes. The from address on the letter was given as Ramkumar.https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/kerala/2025/Dec/10/actor-abduction-and-sexual-assault-case-conspiracy-or-not-many-questions-need-answers Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Judgment comes after eight years, justice not yet Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Conspiracy or not, many questions need answers

CM Pinarayi, Resul skip IFFK opening ceremony

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As curtains for the International Film Festival of Kerala set to rise on Friday, top-guns are set to give the prestigious 30th edition a miss. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and state Chalachithra Academy chairperson Resul Pookutty will not attend the inaugural event, to be held at the capitals Nisagandhi auditorium in the evening. The noticeable absence of Resul Pookutty from the international festival has already triggered discussions within film circles. Despite this being the first IFFK after he took over as Academy chairperson, the Oscar winner will not be present for a major portion of the festival, as he has a pre-scheduled film shoot abroad, said sources. The chairman has conveyed that he would be away during the initial days of the festival. He would try to attend the valedictory function, said an academy executive member. Theres resentment within the academy over the chairmans absence during the crucial event. How can the chairman stay away during the festival, which is the biggest event being organised by the academy, that too when the festival completes three decades? asked another official. Pinarayi Vijayan The chairman is unable to make it due to pre-committed work, confirmed academy vice-chairperson Kukku Prameswaran. Hes out of India, working on a project that he committed to, way before taking over as academy chairperson. He has no choice but to complete it, she pointed out. Unlike the usual practice, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan too would give a miss to the festival inauguration, this time around. For the past many years, it was CM Pinarayi who as the chief guest, inaugurated the festival and presented the prestigious Lifetime Achievement award. This year however the CM is scheduled to inaugurate the sixth edition of Kochi-Muziris Biennale in Fort Kochi on Friday evening, and hence would not be able to physically attend the IFFK inauguration. With no CM in the picture, academy officials did try to rope in actor Mohanlal who recently won the Dadasaheb Phalke award as the chief guest, but he was unavailable due to personal reasons. In the absence of the chief minister, Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan will inaugurate the festival. Chilean film director Pablo Larran will be the chief guest. Since the model code of conduct is in place, the minister had taken prior clearance from the Election Commission to attend the event. Palestine Ambassador Abdullah Abu Shawesh and German Ambassador Philipp Ackermann will be special guests at the event. The minister will present Spirit of Cinema award to Canadian filmmaker Kelly Fyffe-Marshall. The 30th IFFK to begin on Friday will screen 206 films from 82 countries, in 26 categories.

Biennale welcomes visitors to experience art with all the senses

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to inaugurate the sixth edition of Kochi-Muziris Biennale, themed For the Time Being, on December 12; event to showcase works of66 artists from 25 countries

What to see at the Kochi Muziris Biennale 2025

The Island Mural Project, Art By Children, the Collaterals and Invitations Programmes, here is a sneak peak into the countrys most anticipated art event

Sixth edition of Kochi-Muziris Biennale opens on Friday

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan will formally inaugurate the international exhibition at Parade Ground in the evening. The exhibition features works by 66 artists/collectives from 25 countries, alongside a range of parallel shows

Beyond the Kochi Biennale: A guide to heritage walks, kayaking and backwater rides

If youre in Kochi for the Biennale, step outside the galleries: walk through royal Tripunithura, glide through mangrove tunnels by kayak, hop islands by boat and trace centuries-old Jewish history in Chendamangalam

BLS International secures renewal of attestation, apostille services contract with MEA

MUMBAI, Dec 11: BLS International Services on Thursday said it has secured the renewal of its contract for attestation and apostille services with the External Affairs Ministry. The renewed contract covers its existing service operations across Delhi, Hyderabad, Guwahati, Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Bhopal, Chandigarh, Panaji, Kochi, Lucknow, Thiruvananthapuram, Jaipur, Patna and Puducherry, BLS International said in a statement. Under this agreement, BLS International will provide MEA attestation and apostille services for educational, non-educational, and commercial documents across [] The post BLS International secures renewal of attestation, apostille services contract with MEA appeared first on Daily Excelsior .

Comic Con to Debut in Kochi on February 28March 1, 2026

Presented by Maruti Suzuki Arena and powered by Crunchyroll, the maiden edition will be hosted on February 28 and March 1, 2026, at AICC Angamaly, Ernakulam.

Vimoo Sanghvis retrospective Whispering Clay is heading to Kochi in time for the Biennale

A retrospective on one of Indias first studio potters tracks three decades of crafting and countless experimentations. Plus, what to catch at this years Kochi-Muziris Biennale

At three per cent decline, Phase I turnout in Kerala sinks below pandemic-year levels

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Voter turnout has been slipping across successive local body elections in Kerala and the first phase of polling in the states southern districts has reinforced the trend. All seven districts posted a uniform 3% dip, offering a clear preview of the statewide trend. Notably, voter participation figure in these districts have dipped to levels lower than those recorded in 2020, a year marked by the Covid crisis. Pathanamthitta, known for its large NRI population and chronically low turnout, stayed true to pattern once again. It posted the lowest voter participation in Phase I at 66.78%, extending a trend it has held across multiple election cycles. The district also posts low turnout in assembly and Lok Sabha elections, largely because a significant share of its electorate lives overseas. Thiruvananthapuram registered the second lowest turnout that slipped to 67.47% from 70.02% in 2020. The decline was sharper when compared to the turnout of 71.9% recorded in 2015. Even more concerning was the voter participation in Thiruvananthapuram corporation, which fell to 58.29%, down from 59.96% in 2020 and 62.90% in 2015. Ernakulam, despite its largely urban profile, posted the highest turnout among the seven districts at 74.57%. However, there was also a nearly 3% dip compared to the previous election. Notably, Kochi corporation was the only major civic body to better its previous performance, inching up from 62.04% to 62.44%. Kollam, Alappuzha, Kottayam and Idukki districts also saw voter turnout fall by around 3%. State Election Commissioner A Shajahan said a clear statewide polling picture would emerge only after the northern districts also vote, on Thursday. Voter turnout in northern districts have traditionally been on the higher side compared to the south. So, when the final figures emerge, we may be able to analyse the overall trend, Shajahan told TNIE. Meanwhile, experts cite a mix of factors behind the trend. According to K M Sajad Ibrahim, psephologist and professor of political science at Kerala University, increasing voter apathy could be one of the prime factors for the dwindling turnout. Local body polls simply dont command the same seriousness among urban voters as state or national elections. Add to that the confusion over a separate civic voters list. Many find out too late that theyve been left off the rolls, he said. Also, several electors in Phase I complained that party workers were far less active in distributing voter slips compared to previous elections. Local body elections demand a well-oiled party machinery and committed cadre. We arent convinced if all parties bring the same energy to civic polls that they do to larger elections. That lack of drive may be showing up in the turnout as well, Ibrahim added.

Kerala HC to examine letter that predicted actor assault case verdict

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court is set to examine the alarming revelations in the anonymous letter that predicted the verdict in the 2017 actor abduction and assault case a week before it was pronounced. The administrative committee of the HC comprising the Chief Justice and four other senior-most judges will meet on Thursday. At the meeting, it is expected to consider the matter in view of the communication sent by the president of the Kerala High Court Advocates Association (KHCAA). The anonymous letter, dated December 2 and signed by an Indian citizen, was sent to the association via registered post. It reached advocate Yeshwant Shenoy, the KHCAA president, on December 6 and he forwarded it to the Chief Justice on December 8, the day the sessions court delivered its ruling. Describing the contents of the letter as suggestive of a serious breach of confidentiality, Yeshwant had requested the HC to hand over the matter to its vigilance wing for a detailed investigation. The letter stated: ...the 7th accused Charly Thomas, the 8th accused Gopalakrishnan alias Dileep, and the 9th accused Sanilkumar alias Mesthiri Sanil will be acquitted, and only six accused will be convicted. Former Kerala HC judge Justice B Kemal Pasha confirmed to TNIE on Wednesday that he too received the letter on December 4, but disregarded it as it was anonymous. However, when I heard the verdict, I was shocked, as the revelations in the letter were almost identical, he said. A fool-proof investigation is needed regarding the origin of the letter and whether details of the verdict were leaked. Meanwhile, the KHCAA distanced itself from the communication sent by Yeshwant to the Chief Justice. In a statement, advocate M R Nandakumar, KHCAA secretary, said the communication was issued without the knowledge or concurrence of the association. Judgment leaked? Key details of actor assault case verdict out a week before We are not against any probe into letter: Advocates assn secy The KHCAA meeting held on Wednesday further resolved that any communication by office-bearers should henceforth be made only with prior approval of the executive committee. The executive committee places on record its firm belief that the Sessions Judge concerned commands unquestionable integrity. As the matter has been placed before the Chief Justice, the committee does not consider it appropriate to make any further comment, the statement read. Speaking to TNIE later, Nandakumar clarified: We are not against any investigation based on the letter. Let there be one. Justice Pasha said the Chief Justice can order an inquiry by the HC vigilance wing, and such an inquiry is essential as the issue raises questions on the sanctity of the judicial system. Meanwhile, taking to Facebook, Yeshwant defended his decision to forward the letter to the Chief Justice, stating its subject line clearly mentioned a Potential Breach of Confidentiality and that it sought an inquiry only into a possible leak of details of the judgment before pronouncement. I never questioned the integrity of the judge or the advocates who worked laboriously for nearly a decade to conclude the trial. Just because celebrities are involved, the matter is receiving heightened media attention. As president of the association, my interest is in the integrity of the judicial institution, he wrote. Yeshwant noted that the case had witnessed allegations of confidentiality breach earlier, including claims the memory card containing the assaults visuals which was in courts custody was accessed by certain people. He stressed such lapses were unacceptable. Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Judgment comes after eight years, justice not yet

Petronet LNG secures Rs 12,000 crore loan for petrochem project

Petronet LNG has secured a significant 12,000 crore loan. State Bank of India and Bank of Baroda are providing the funds. This financing will primarily support Petronet's petrochemicals project. It will also cover other capital expenditure needs. The agreement follows a competitive bidding process. Petronet is India's largest LNG importer. It operates regasification terminals in Dahej and Kochi.

Public-facing Mass: 200 parishioners occupy Kochi basilica in protest

One Church One Qurbana Movement protested the move, saying parish members who supported the Uniform Holy Mass had not been informed about the decision to hold the service at the Basilica

Kerala local body polls: As Kochi Corporation awaits new council, experts flag core urban challenges

Peoples opinions range from outright criticism to cautious optimism, and concerns about the lack of clarity on the direction Kochi city should adopt for future development

Coastal outskirts keep democracy moving in Thiruvananthapuram amid low turnout

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: For a city long shadowed by its reputation for lacklustre polling, Thiruvananthapuram seemed to slip deeper into that pattern on election day. In the citys upscale neighbourhoods, where voter apathy has become almost ritual, the silence was unmistakable. By noon, turnout still hovered stubbornly below 30%, a telling sign of the indifference that had marked the morning. At the Kowdiar LP School, nestled in one of the citys quietest upscale pockets, the polling station wore a unhurried look through the morning. Only a handful of voters trickled in at a time, the queue seldom growing beyond two or three people. Then, just before 10.45am, the hush lifted. The arrival of Governor Rajendra Arlekar briefly transformed the otherwise languid booth into a flurry of activity, drawing curious glances. Although the governor arrived prepared to wait his turn, the sparse early-morning turnout meant his time in the queue was fleeting. But as the sun climbed higher, the scene began to shift. Slowly, elderly voters emerged, some leaning on canes, others guided by family. Retired college teacher Johny K John and his wife Elizabeth Thomas have treated every election like an unbreakable family ritual since settling in the capital three decades ago. Their sons John and Thomas, working in Kochi and Kozhikode respectively, boarded overnight trains just to make it home in time to vote alongside their parents. There is definitely a sense of apathy, especially among the younger generation, Elizabeth said. However there are still many who realise that their vote matters, she said. Aparna V P, a first-time voter in the local body polls, echoed that sentiment. My vote is for development and for a city with better, more reliable infrastructure, the BCom student said. Coastal wards told a very different story. By afternoon, polling stations in Beemapally, Valiyathura and the Port wards were buzzing, with queues that refused to thin even after the 6pm deadline. For us, our daily bread comes first. Food first, democracy later, said Jeremias, a 59-year-old fisherman from the Port ward. He had stepped out to get his fishing net repaired but sprinted back as the clock neared closing time. At Kachani ward, voting flowed steadily from early morning. But not everyone arrived in calm spirits. Senior citizen Krishnankutty stood fuming outside the Kachani Government High School booth, where the premises had been dug up for construction. Moments earlier, he had nearly stumbled over the debris while trying to navigate his way to the entrance. No wonder people stay indifferent, he said, frustration unmistakable in his voice. We are already tired of pothole-ridden road. Now, even the polling station is a mess. My vote will definitely reflect my resentment. he said.

Mollywood split as Mollywood push back against the rush to reinstate Dileep

KOCHI: A swift pushback is emerging in the Mollywood against the urgency shown by major industry bodies to reinduct actor Dileep, who was acquitted in the 2017 actress abduction and assault case on Monday. Several from the industry, particularly women, have criticised the haste with which organisations signalled their willingness to reinstate the actor, terming it a betrayal of the survivor and a continuation of an unsafe culture within Malayalam cinema. Senior dubbing artist Bhagyalakshmi was among the first to react, resigning from the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) in protest. Bhagyalakshmi said the federations eagerness to welcome Dileep back clearly showed that the organisations will never stand with survivors. She said the major bodies were backing those with money and power instead of taking a principled stand. Scriptwriter and Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) member Deedhi Damodaran also questioned the sincerity of those claiming solidarity with the survivor while continuing to remain members of AMMA, the association the survivor had quit in protest. Real solidarity would mean stepping away from organisations that maintain status quo, she said. The backlash comes after FEFKA, the Kerala Film Producers Association, and the Association of Malayalam Movie Actors (AMMA), signalled support for Dileep within hours of the verdict. FEFKA general secretary B Unnikrishnan said the actor would be reinstated as soon as he submitted a request letter. Kerala Film Producers Association president B Rakesh echoed the view, saying there were no hurdles in taking Dileep back. AMMA, meanwhile, put out a post on social media welcoming the verdict. Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Judgment comes after eight years, justice not yet Actor-filmmaker Lal, a key witness in the case, said he was satisfied the accused had been convicted. He, however, declined comment on the conspiracy charge. I will continue to help the case at every stage, even in the Supreme Court if required, he said. Interacting with reporters after casting his vote in the local body polls in Idukki, actor Asif Ali said he welcomed the verdict and reiterated that the survivor must get justice. He, too refrained from making a detailed comment, citing contempt of court. As the industry recalibrates in the wake of the verdict, the divide between those rushing to reinduct Dileep and those insisting on standing firmly with the survivor has once again exposed the fault lines in Malayalam cinemas institutions. Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Conspiracy or not, many questions need answers

Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Conspiracy or not, many questions need answers

KOCHI: The trial court has acquitted actor Dileep in the actor abduction-assault case on the ground that the conspiracy charge against him could not be established. However, the fact that the conspiracy angle was not proved doesnt mean there was no conspiracy in the attack. The verdict, that convicted six persons and acquitted Dileep and three others, has left many questions unanswered. Hopefully, there will be more clarity when the court pronounces the sentence for those convicted and the details of the judgment are available in public domain. As of now, the question thats foremost on peoples minds is: if Dileep is indeed not guilty, who was behind the attack? And what about the justice for the survivor if all those involved arent made to face the consequences? Underlining the conspiracy angle, legal experts ask why a six-member criminal gang would target this particular actor and orchestrate a plot to assault her. The High Courts observations in the past on Pulsar Sunis financial capacity to repeatedly file bail pleas also suggest that someone may have been supporting him from behind the scenes. While rejecting Pulsar Sunis bail plea in June 2024, Justice P V Kunhikrishnan noted that the accused had filed ten different bail applications through multiple lawyers. The court observed: If the petitioner has financial difficulties, he can approach the Legal Services Authority to engage a lawyer. But he chose to engage his own lawyers, which is his right. However, from the petitioners conduct, filing bail application after bail application before the High Court and the Supreme Court, it is clear that either he is financially fit or there are some others behind the curtain helping him file these bail applications. Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Judgment comes after eight years, justice not yet Regarding the trial courts rejection of the prosecutions conspiracy charge, Advocate Raghul Sudheesh, a lawyer at the Kerala High Court, pointed out that any crime of this nature must involve a clear conspirator and motive. If it was for blackmailing, then the question arises: for whom was this act committed? he said. In the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case, the prosecution may have failed to present sufficient evidence to incriminate the eighth accused, Dileep. The final verdict, which is to be pronounced by the District and Sessions Court, Ernakulam, on December 12, may shed light on the doubts of common people regarding the acquittal, Raghul added. A High Court lawyer who wished to remain anonymous said several crucial questions still need answers, particularly why Pulsar Suni and the five others, who were found guilty by the trial court, would take such risks to target a specific actor. According to him, the survivor may have been singled out as part of someone elses plan. The offence committed by the six-member gang was a pre-planned act, carried out as part of a quotation given by somebody, the lawyer said. He also pointed out that the financial backgrounds of the convicted accused are extremely poor, suggesting that someone else was likely coordinating and funding the operation. He added that in criminal cases of this nature, the efforts taken by the police to establish conspiracy must be carefully evaluated.

Judgment leaked? Key details of actor assault case verdict out a week before

KOCHI: Raising serious concerns about judicial confidentiality in the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case, a top advocates body on Tuesday confirmed it had received an anonymous letter detailing the crucial content of the verdict in the case, a week before it was pronounced. Dated December 2, the letter, sent by an Indian citizen, claimed that the upcoming verdict scheduled for December 8, 2025, in the high-profile case would exclude seventh accused Charly Thomas, eighth accused Gopalakrishnan alias Dileep, and the ninth accused Sanilkumar alias Mesthiri Sanil, and that judgment would be delivered only against the remaining six accused. The letter was sent to the Kerala High Court Advocates Association (KHCAA) which forwarded it to the Chief Justice on December 8, the same day the Ernakulam District and Principal Sessions Court pronounced its order. Association president Yeshwanth Shenoy confirmed to TNIE that the association did receive the letter and that it was forwarded to the Chief Justice for appropriate action. Describing the situation as a potential serious breach of confidentiality, Shenoy stressed that an inquiry ought to be initiated to determine how such sensitive information could have leaked. I have not yet received a response from the High Court. The content of the letter has the potential to denigrate the judicial system. Hence, a proper investigation is needed to find the origin of the letter, he said. According to the letter, there were 12 accused persons in the case, SC 118/2018 Pulsar Suni vs State of Kerala, pending before Ernakulam Principal District Judge Honey M Varghese. Among them, the 10th accused was made an approver, and the 11th and 12th accused were discharged. After this, 9 accused remained, it stated. Advocates association seeks thorough probe The letter alleged that Judge Honey M. Varghese prepared the judgment through her close associate, Shirley, and, by showing it to Sharath, a hotel businessman and the close companion of the 8th accused, secured a deal, and is going to pronounce this order on December 8, 2025. The letter claimed that two senior Kerala High Court judges and another judge, who is in charge of Ernakulam district, have extended support to her in all matters, which is what encourages the sessions judge to engage in such acts that undermine justice. In its letter to the Chief Justice, the KHCAA stressed that, regardless of the cases outcome, the individuals named in the letter must be verified. Pointing out that this will have serious repercussions on the reputation of the judiciary and its integrity, the association requested the chief justice to forward the same to the vigilance registrar or any other agency to thoroughly probe the entire episode.

Actor abduction and sexual assault case: Judgment comes after eight years, justice not yet

KOCHI: In a verdict that has stirred up feelings of disbelief, agony and pain among large sections of people who had rooted for the survivor, the Ernakulam District and Principal Sessions Court on Monday acquitted actor Dileep in the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case, after concluding that the prosecution failed to establish the conspiracy charge against him. Soon after the acquittal, the state government said it would appeal the verdict. Judge Honey M Varghese held that the evidence presented did not conclusively link Dileep (P Gopalakrishnan), the eighth accused, to the alleged plan to abduct and assault the survivor. The prosecution had argued that Dileep masterminded and financed the crime as an act of personal vengeance, alleging that the survivor had disclosed to his then-wife, actor Manju Warrier, his relationship with actor Kavya Madhavan, his current spouse. But the court refused to accept the conspiracy theory. Dileep was arrested on July 10, 2017, and later released on bail. While the conspiracy charge against Dileep fell through, the court found six accused N S Sunil alias Pulsar Suni, Martin Antony, Manikandan B, Vijeesh V P, Salim H alias Vadival Salim, and Pradeep guilty of abducting and sexually assaulting the survivor inside a moving vehicle on the night of February 17, 2017. These accused persons, the court held, had direct involvement in the crime. All the six were remanded to judicial custody, with sentencing scheduled for December 12. They have been sent to Viyyur Central Jail. Since the offences are grave and serious in nature and perpetrated against a woman, the accused are not entitled to the benevolence of the Probation of Offenders Act. Bail bonds of A1 to A6 are cancelled and they are remanded to custody. They shall be heard on the question of sentence on December 12, the court stated. 'Won't accept double standards': Dubbing artist Bhagyalakshmi on FEFKA's plan to readmit Dileep The court also acquitted Charly Thomas, charged with harbouring the offender; ninth accused Sanil Kumar alias Mesthiri Sanil, tried for conspiracy and aiding the crime; and 15th accused Sarath G Nair,charged with causing disappearance of evidence.The court said that Mesthiri Sanil is in judicial custody in this case. He will be released if his detention is not required in connection with any other case. Detailing the sequence of events, the court noted that the survivor was travelling from Thrissur to Kochi on February 17, 2017, when a van, with the accused, rammed her car near Athani, staging an accident to abduct her. Inside the moving vehicle, Pulsar Suni raped her, recording the assault on his mobile phone for blackmail. Based on witness testimonies and digital evidence, the court convicted the six accused under Sections 120B (criminal conspiracy), 342 (wrongful confinement), 354 (outraging modesty), 354B (assault with intent to disrobe), 357, 376D (gang rape) of the IPC, and Sections 66E and 67A of the Information Technology Act. 'Won't accept double standards': Dubbing artist Bhagyalakshmi on FEFKA's plan to readmit Dileep

Kerala local body polls: Name missing, Mammootty unable to cast vote in election

KOCHI: While Ernakulam district celebrated democracy on Tuesday, Malayalam actor Mammootty missed out as his name was not found in the electoral rolls. The actor, who now resides in Vyttila under the Ponnurunni division of the Kochi corporation, was unable to vote in the 2020 local body elections owing to similar reasons. He (Mammootty) cast his vote in the previous assembly and Lok Sabha elections, but not in the 2020 corporation polls. When we realised his name was missing from the electoral rolls, we contacted his manager and requested the necessary documents to complete the formalities. However, at the time, the actor and his family were abroad for his treatment and were unable to proceed, said a public representative in Ponnurunni who is also a CPM supporter. However, she said the name of Mammoottys wife, Sulfath, was in the voters list. The actors family had last cast votes at booth 4 of CKC LP School in Ponnurunni.

A growing fascination for old timepieces keeps Kochi's watch repairers ticking

As fast fashion and easy-to-replace gadgets take over our lives, something unexpected is happening inside Kochis smallest shop fronts. Repairers say they are now seeing more young faces teenagers and people in their early twenties coming in with watches that have stories behind them. Instead of throwing an old piece away, they want it repaired and given a second life. Its a small but telling shift back to valuing things that last. Ambika P R, who runs Nice Watch and Services near Shastri Nagar in Maradu with her husband Ramesh C M, says the shift is unmistakable. The younger generation is much into this trend of using and reusing vintage products, she says. Students and young professionals often walk in with their parents Titan pieces or inherited mechanical watches, wanting them to be brought back to life. At the 80-year-old Gejo Watch Centre on Sahodaran Ayyappan Road, Ravipuram, the story is more layered. The shop, established in 1945, has seen the industry evolve. We are old people. Customers these days are fewer than in our prime, says George C V, the shop owner. Smartwatches, he explains, have encouraged a use-and-discard attitude. But those who come in usually do so for deep personal reasons. One boy wanted his watch repaired because it was a core memory he got it as a gift after clearing SSLC, George recalls. That sentiment keeps this trade going. Meanwhile, at Sruthy Times, Panampilly Nagar, owner Shaji K D takes a more cautious view. He says repairing old watches is not always practical. If the inside is broken, the parts must be fully replaced, and even then, we cant guarantee perfect functioning, he explains. Still, he remains committed to servicing the older styles analogue, winding and automatic watches insisting that the newer smart ones are basically unrepairable. A snap from Lonan Watch House in Thevara Junction Yet, even he admits that emotional value often wins. People bring their grandparents watches or clocks, some almost 85 years old, just to preserve the vintage charm, he says. At Ganesh and Sons Watch & Old Clock Repair, Chittoor Road, Valanjambalam, Ramesh T G highlights the biggest hurdle: spare parts. The motive is to keep something meaningful alive in a world where such pieces are becoming rare, he says. But getting original parts is difficult. He notes that younger customers increasingly request specific strap colours or metal finishes to suit their personal style another sign of vintage aesthetics finding relevance. And its not just heirlooms from decades past. Some young customers are taking charge of preserving their own family possessions. Take Angel Saju, a college student from Thevara, who still uses her mothers 20-year-old Swiss watch. She brings it in regularly for battery replacements and servicing. It still works perfectly, and it feels special to use something my mother wore every day, she says. For her, maintaining it is not a chore. Its a connection. Across Kochi, the revival is quiet but noticeable. Motivated by nostalgia, sustainability, aesthetic reasons or the desire to preserve family heirlooms, young customers are giving watch repairers something they havent felt in years: the sense that their craft still matters.

Parties put up brave face after moderate voter turnout in Kochi Corporation

Kochi Corporation records 62.52% turnout; youth apathy, roll errors blamed for slow polling

Political parties complain of electoral roll discrepancies in Kochi

A flashback to Kochis first thriller corporation election

Kochis engagement with organised civic governance began long before India became independent. The Dutch established the Fort Kochi municipality as early as 1664, marking one of the oldest experiments in municipal administration in the subcontinent. By 1866, Fort Kochi had become the first modern municipality in the state, during a period when the British residents took over the charge and served as the chairmen. As administrative systems evolved, voting rights were gradually extended to tax-paying citizens, setting the stage for more participatory urban governance. Mattancherry municipality followed in 1873, while Ernakulams municipality had been formed even earlier in 1823, by the British residents to oversee the regions administration. Together, they laid the foundation for what would eventually become a consolidated urban entity. Fast forward to November 1, 1967. It was almost certain that CPM leader M M Lawrence would become the first mayor of the newly formed Kochi corporation that day. The Left front had secured 13 seats, while the Congress-led fronts A A Kochunni Master had managed 11. The Left front workers were ready with crackers to celebrate the win. There was huge excitement, considering that it was the first corporation election ever. But things flipped in a matter of hours, says former mayor and historian K J Sohan. A single cross-vote pushed the mayoral contest into a tie. The final tally stood at 1212. Hence, the election of Kochis first mayor came down to chance. The draw of lots sealed the result, and Kochunni Master became the first mayor of Kochi. The idea of merging Kochis fragmented local bodies had been discussed throughout the early 1960s. It was the Mattancherry municipal council that first passed a resolution in 1960 recommending a unified civic administration. The Kerala Assembly later endorsed the proposal, and by July 1967, the plan for a consolidated corporation received formal approval. The new civic body combined the municipalities of Ernakulam, Fort Kochi and Mattancherry, together with the panchayats of Palluruthy, Edappally, Vennala and Vyttila. The newly created urban entity spanned roughly 83.5sq.km , bringing together neighbourhoods with distinct histories and identities under a single administrative structure for the first time. It was a challenging time for the newly elected leaders, as they had to concentrate on the budgeting and integration of the wards that had been formed under a single corporation, says Sohan. While the first council was elected for a five-year term, elections were postponed, and the council continued for over a decade. The second election to the corporation was held only in 1979. It would take another decade for true democratic reforms. The turning point came with the 74th Constitutional Amendment in 1992, which granted municipalities across India a clear constitutional status, says Sohan. Regular elections every five years became mandatory. Provisions for reservation, including one-third representation for women, were introduced. As Kochi heads into another municipal election, its civic history stands as a reminder that surprises are nothing new. Will there be any this time?

The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate, Assam - Honoured as 'Hotel of the Year 2025' by The Gallivanter's Guide

The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate, Assam . Trusted for over three decades by top travellers globally, this prestigious accolade places the property amongst the best in the global luxury hospitality landscape. The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate, Assam Set amidst 1400 acres of Assams historic tea plantations, The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate offers a serene, immersive escape where experiential luxury is redefined by authenticity and unhurried time. Every element, from carefully curated culinary experiences to personalised service with deep respect for the local heritage, truly celebrates the destination and reflects The Postcard Hotels commitment to providing extraordinary guest experiences. The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate, Assam This years selection followed a first-hand evaluation by Philippe Servais, Editor-in-Chief of The Gallivanters Guide , whose reviews are regarded as a definitive benchmark for luxury travellers seeking authenticity, excellence, and emotional resonance. After extensive global travels through 2025, Philippe identified The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate, Assam as the standout winner amongst shortlisted hotels across different continents praising its rare combination of warmth, intuition, and a deeply felt sense of place. He also noted that the brands true differentiators become evident after more than one stay, revealing a consistent thread of intention, honesty, and quiet confidence that binds the portfolio across its diverse locations. Philippe also visited another property by the brand, The Postcard on the Arabian Sea, Karnataka, and mentioned that it was just as accomplished. He further added, The Postcard vision intimate, sincere, unhurried, and rooted in place feels profoundly relevant to discerning travellers today . Also recognising The Postcard Hotels emphasis on character and service rather than facilities and spectacle, he indicated that the brands anytime check-in and check-out, all-day breakfast, as well as genuine hospitality delivered with sincerity at its hotels quietly disrupts the status quo of Indian luxury. To be recognised amongst the worlds finest hotels by The Gallivanters Guide is an extraordinary honour. Assam holds a very special place in our journey, and this award also celebrates the consistent dedication and hard work of our incredible team. We continue to remain committed to uplifting local communities through sustainable livelihoods ensuring that our presence creates meaningful and lasting impact on the destination , said Kapil Chopra, Founder of The Postcard Hotel. He further added, For the Editor to select The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate after experiencing our property and some of the most celebrated luxury hotels globally is both deeply humbling as well as encouraging . With this honour, The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate creates a distinctive place for itself within a distinguished list of the worlds finest hotels recognised over the years by The Gallivanters Guide. For more than three decades, it has been one of the most respected global authorities on luxury travel, shaping opinions of the worlds most discerning travellers. Its Hotel of the Year honour is awarded through rigorous, independently conducted reviews making it a highly coveted global recognition. About The Postcard Hotel Kapil Chopra, along with a team of seasoned luxury hoteliers including Akanksha Lamba, Anirudh Kandpal, and Raman Bansal, embarked on a visionary journey to create extraordinary experiences for discerning travellers. In December 2018, they unveiled The Postcard Hotela brand driven by boldness and ambition, committed to redefining the rules and elevating the standards of experiential luxury. The Postcard Hotel is now opening 8 new hotels in the next 12 months making it the fastest growing uber luxury hotel brand in the world. Today, The Postcard Hotels growing collection spans India and beyond. In Goa, its four retreatsSaligao, Velha, Cuelim, and Hideawaycapture the regions charm, while The Postcard on the Arabian Sea offers sweeping oceanfront serenity. In Gujarat, The Postcard Gir Wildlife Sanctuary immerses guests in the land of the Asiatic Lion, and The Postcard Mandalay Hall in Kochi brings art and heritage together in an evocative setting. Further afield, The Postcard in the Durrung Tea Estate, Assam, and The Postcard in the Himalayan Willows, Leh, offer uncharted adventures and tranquil escapes. Internationally, the brand extends its philosophy through The Postcard Dewa in Thimphu, Bhutan, and The Postcard Galle in Sri Lankaeach a celebration of place, culture, and understated elegance. @thepostcarddurrungteaestate .

The larger-than-life arc of actor Dileep

KOCHI: The fate of actor Dileep acquitted in the actor assault case after an exhausting over five-year trial has turned out to be nothing short of an anti-climax, especially for someone once accused of conspiring in the brutal assault of a fellow actor. From a scrawny mimicry artist to an actor, and eventually a producer, distributor, and theatre owner, Gopalakrishnan Padmanabhan alias Dileeps ascent to stardom and his later slide into notoriety, before being cleared of all charges extends far beyond the contours of a film script. Until the assault case erupted, Dileep was among the most influential power centres in the Malayalam film industry, commanding clout that extended across production floors, distribution networks, and exhibition circuits. Dileep entered cinema through the back door of Kochis mimicry troupes in the early 1990s. A friend who knew Dileep since his college days recalled, He was very ambitious from the very beginning and had an insatiable hunger for stardom. He started as an assistant director before he took to acting as a career. He had the gift of the gab, which made him desirable in social circles... He climbed his way up through a network of fellow comic artists and friends. Dileep came from an impoverished family and money was always a major factor. His marriage to actor Manju Warrier in 1998 was a surprise to many, he added. By the early 2000s, that charm had crystallised into a distinct on-screen persona. Films like Punjabi House, C.I.D Moosa, Meesha Madhavan and Kalyanaraman turned him into a bankable star. But Dileeps ascent was not limited to acting alone. As his stardom grew, he ventured into production, and into distribution, controlling significant circuits in central Kerala. His investments in theatre chains further cemented his presence. Liberty Basheer, a theatre owner and producer, said Dileep had decisive influence in AMMA and FEFKA, the trade bodies of actors and technicians. He was not satisfied with it and split the theatre owners union just before the actor assault incident. Basheer told TNIE that legally, all the unions/associations are bound to take him back if he applies formally but the actor might not be as powerful as he was as the ecosystem has evolved. This consolidation of power earned him both admiration and unease. The turning point arrived in 2017 with the actor abduction and assault case. The star who once drew lakhs to theatres found himself boycotted and fighting a prolonged legal battle. Today, Dileeps trajectory stands as one of Malayalam cinemas most dramatic arcs: A meteoric rise, decades of dominance, and an equally steep fall from grace. His acquittal from the case has sparked curiosity about his future, with the industry and society eagerly awaiting to see if hell reclaim his top position.

2017 Kerala actor abduction case: SHO who first recorded ordeal still rankled by it

KOCHI: Living the retirement life of a former police officer and helping out at her familys tiny spice unit in Aluva, P K Radhamani couldnt find comfort in the fragrance enveloping her. She was unsettled, awaiting the much-anticipated verdict in the 2017 case. It was her pen that first brought the incident to lightshe was the one who recorded the victims statement, and the first person to hear what would be repeated in the halls of the legal system. Radhamani had just taken charge as station house officer (SHO) at Infopark police station, after serving in the Womens Cell. It was around midnight that she received a call from then Kochi commissioner M P Dinesh. It comprised a simple instruction: There is an important case. You must come immediately. She had no idea that she was being sent to actor-director Lals residence. As they entered the approach road to Lals house in Padamugal, Kakkanad, she noticed several other vehicles moving to and from the premises. She encountered P Rajeeve (now a minister), who told her, You should proceed to Lals house. At the residence, the commissioner instructed Radhamani to record the statement of the survivor, who was inside. When I entered the room, I saw her in an extremely distressed state. So, instead of immediately beginning the procedure, I spent some time consoling her. I waited for her to regain composure. What I heard that night was something no woman should ever have to experience. I was deeply shaken, she said. Radhamani was part of the probe until a special team was formed, but continued to accompany the survivor on several occasions, including the medical examination, until retirement. The trial of the case is a stage in her service life that she would never want to revisit. As the officer who recorded the survivors statement and took part in the initial proceedings, I had to undergo four to five days of cross-examination. The defence counsel B Raman Pillai even alleged we had fabricated the statement. If an officer like me felt so traumatised, try to imagine what the survivor went through, said Radhamani. Radhamani said she still carries the pride of never deviating from what the law directed. She also appreciated the survivor for standing firm with courage, and noted that her family and close friends played a crucial role in supporting her.

2017 Kerala actor abduction case: Chaos, cheers and questions

KOCHI: The Ernakulam district sessions court complex had not seen a morning like this in years. Long before sunrise had settled into the city on Monday, the premises were rumbling with tension. By 7am, camera crews, reporters and excited supporters of actor Dileep had taken over the narrow lanes leading to the court. Everyone knew they were about to witness one of Keralas biggest judicial showdowns and nobody wanted to miss a single frame. By 9.45am, the first real hint of the momentous day ahead arrived. Judge Honey M Varghese, calm and composed, dressed in a white saree and clutching her 1,000-page judgment, stepped into the court building. Minutes later, lawyers from both sides arrived. Advocate T B Mini, counsel for the survivor, was soon surrounded by mediapersons. She reiterated: All 10 accused will be convicted. Special public prosecutor Ajakumar followed. Stepping out of the police vehicle, he assured the crowd that justice would be served. By 10.15am, the accused started arriving. Actor Dileepthe eighth accusedslipped into the complex at 10.22am with tenth accused Sarath G Nair. The actor left the vehicle after it had moved far away from the crowd, and disappeared into the court through a backdoor. Fifteen minutes later, confusion erupted. A masked man stepped out of a car and rushed inside. Cameras zoomed in, people shouted. Was it Pulsar Suni? It wasnt. Suni arrived at 10.45am. Wearing a black T-shirt, he walked out of the Kia Carnival with practised swagger. Flanked by his lawyers, he glanced back at the crowd with the confidence of someone used to unsettling a room. At 11am, the court fell silent. Outside, the crowd held its breath. Seconds later, roars exploded across the street. Dileep had been acquitted. The verdict spread like wildfire, and celebrations broke out instantly. Prime accused Pulsar Suni and fourth accused Vijeesh V P ,Second accused Martin Antony ,Sixth accused Pradeep,Fifth accused Vadival Salim Fans danced, shouted his name, and distributed sweets. The actors exit was straight out of a film. While onlookers waited near the backdoor, Dileep appeared at the main staircase at 11.18am, like a hero emerging for his curtain call. Now smiling broadly, he descended through a tunnel of black-robed lawyers, hands raised, wrist wrapped in prayer threads. Supporters surged forward. Cameras flashed. A few even wept. For the first time in nine years, Dileep spoke about the case, thanking God and making a veiled swipe at his ex-wife, actor Manju Warrier. What followed next painted a stark contrast. One by one, the six convicts, handcuffed, were brought out and escorted to a bus. Pulsar Suni was now flanked by officers. The convoy moved toward the general hospital where they would undergo medical examination before being taken to Kakkanad district jail. Dileep resurfaced at the house of senior counsel Raman Pillai. There were hugs, tears, and celebrations. By noon, he reached his home in Aluva, where his wife Kavya Madhavan, daughter, and others awaited him with applause, garlands, and fireworks. But even as he was welcomed like a returning hero, uneasy questions were being asked outside the court. Will he get back the family audience he once had? wondered a man watching the incidents from a distance. Im not sure. Lets see. For all the noise, all the chanting and camera flashes, one truth lingered: The court had spoken, but the debate over justice had just begun.

2017 Kerala actor abduction case: How conspiracy narrative fell apart

KOCHI: Though the prosecution put forward several conspiracy theories to implicate actor Dileep, the trial court rejected them. However, the prosecution succeeded in establishing the second conspiracy, between Pulsar Suni and five other accused, to abduct and rape the survivor. The prosecutions first theory was that Pulsar Suni and Dileep conspired during a meeting at hotel Abad Plaza. As per the charges, the duo entered into a criminal conspiracy to videograph nude visuals and sexual acts of the survivor to defame and harass her. Dileep allegedly called Suni to room 410 of Abad Plaza on MG Road, Ernakulam, on a day between March 28 and April 2, 2013. There, Suni agreed to the plan, and Dileep allegedly promised him Rs 1.5 crore, the prosecution said. Advocate Sujesh Menon, Dileeps counsel, said the allegation lacked valid proof. The prosecution relied on tower location data showing that Dileep and Suni were in the same place at similar times. Menon countered that Dileep was at those places or film shoots or rehearsals, while Suni, being a driver on film sets, too might have been present. There was no evidence proving they met or discussed any plan, he argued. The prosecution maintained that several circumstances pointed to an illegal quotation agreement between the two, like Suni initially concealing Dileeps role, and, during the assault, misleading the survivor by claiming a woman had issued the quotation. During interrogation, and in a letter to Dileep, Suni reportedly admitted to receiving instructions from him. The court held the evidence did not conclusively link Dileep. 2017 Kerala actor abduction case: We had complete freedom, support from seniors throughout, says probe officer The prosecutions third theory centred on an alleged meeting between Dileep and Suni at Padmasarovaram on December 26, 2016. Police pursued this angle following revelations by filmmaker Balachandra Kumar. Kumar alleged he saw Dileep interacting closely with Suni. The significance of this meeting, they argued, was heightened by the fact that the first failed attempt to attack the survivor took place in Goa just days later. The prosecution claimed that oral evidence from Kumar, Nadirsha, Jinson, and Vishnu (Sunis cousin), along with forensic analysis and digital and documentary records, corroborated the meeting. However, the defence countered that the audio clips submitted by Kumar had no evidentiary value, as he had not produced the original phone used to record them.

AMMA and FEFKA consider reinstating Dileep

KOCHI: With the court acquitting Dileep in the 2017 actor assault case, film bodies including the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) and the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) have initiated discussions to give membership to the former, who was suspended from the association in July 2017. FEFKA was the first film body to suspend actor Dileep from his primary membership soon after his arrest in the case. As a trade union, we suspended Dileep after his arrest. Now, he has been acquitted in the case and we are considering reinstating his membership. We have requested the directors union to look into the verdict and consider revoking his suspension, FEFKA general secretary B Unnikrishnan said. Though AMMA expelled Dileep, he was later reinstated, leading to a controversy. In October 2018, he eventually resigned from the association under pressure from the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC). He was also the treasurer of the artists association during the late Innocents term as the president. Malayalam actor assault case: Dileep walks free, targets ex-wife Manju Warrier Let law take its course. AMMA respects the court, AMMA wrote on social media on Monday. Addressing the media in Kochi, AMMA vice-president Lakshmi Priya welcomed the verdict. I personally welcome the court verdict. I dont think Dileepettan would attempt such a crime. This does not mean we are not with the survivor. Both of them are our colleagues and friends. But I dont think he would do this, she said. Dileep is also the founding president of the Film Exhibitors United Organisation of Kerala.

Prosecution counters Dileeps allegations against Manju

KOCHI: Soon after the acquittal, Dileep came out against Manju Warrier , alleging that she hatched a conspiracy against him. He pointed out that Manju, during a gathering of film stars two days after the incident, had said the sexual assault on the woman actor was organised and should be thoroughly probed. However, the prosecution countered this by saying that if they had intended to implicate him based on Manjus remarks, they could have done so while filing the main chargesheet against Pulsar Suni and five others. Special Public Prosecutor V Ajakumar told TNIE, Dileeps statement is absolutely wrong. We have produced all evidence against him. There was no deliberate attempt to arraign him as an accused in the case. 2017 Kerala actor abduction case: No evidence ever existed against Dileep, says Pillai He clarified that the probe proceeded based on a letter sent by Dileep alleging extortion to the then Director General of Police (DGP) Loknath Behera, along with a letter sent by Pulsar Suni from jail. Behera forwarded both to the SIT for examination. Ajakumar said, after Behera was relieved from the DGP post, T P Senkumar took charge. Senkumar, who reportedly had a longstanding professional rivalry with B Sandhya, who headed the SIT, issued an order restraining the team from arresting Dileep. Later, Senkumar left the post and Behera returned as DGP. Sandhya then explained all the findings against Dileep, after which Behera granted the liberty to proceed against him, he said.

2017 Kerala actor abduction case: No evidence ever existed against Dileep, says Pillai

KOCHI: Senior advocate B Raman Pillai and his team, by his own submission, had never encountered a trial of this nature in a criminal case. Pillai, who represented Dileep in the actor assault case, said he had never argued a case where there was no evidence whatsoever against the accused. On the verdict, Pillai, who was assisted by his team comprising advocates Sujesh Menon and Philip T Varghese, said he was relieved and pleased, asserting that the case against Dileep was fabricated. He (Dileep) was deliberately dragged into the case, with the involvement of certain senior police officers and others. Even the advocates who appeared for him were targeted and faced difficulties, Pillai told TNIE. He said once the full judgment is received, they will consider further steps if it becomes clear that Dileep was victimised and there was conspiracy to drag him into the case. 2017 Kerala actor abduction case: We had complete freedom, support from seniors throughout, says probe officer By December 2021, nearly 200 witnesses had been examined, and the investigation officer the final witness was next. However, Pillai said the prosecution suddenly delayed proceedings without explanation, prompting the defence to file the petition that prompted the High Court to set a timeline for completing further investigation. From the beginning, I understood the case against Dileep was fabricated and lacked evidence. That is why I stayed with the defence. In my entire career, I have never handled a case dragged out for this long, and even when my health was failing, I remained firm, he said. Pillai also said that Balachandra Kumars entry into the case was pre-planned and part of a larger conspiracy. Malayalam actor assault case: Dileep walks free, targets ex-wife Manju Warrier

2017 Kerala actor abduction case: We had complete freedom, support from seniors throughout, says probe officer

KOCHI: The delivery of the long-awaited verdict in the actor abduction case has cast a renewed spotlight on the crucial role played by the investigation teams in bringing the case to its legal conclusion. With the case featuring high-profile names like Dileep in the chargesheet, the probe involved meticulous processes of framing charges, collecting evidence, and completing every procedural step with precision. We had complete freedom throughout the investigation, and the support from our senior officers enabled us to conduct the probe independently, said investigation officer Byju Paulose, a DySP with the crime branch. A case involving high-profile individuals and intense public attention comes with unique challenges. Many witnesses from the film industry were initially hesitant to give statements, while common people were more willing to come forward, he said. Citing his own instance, the officer said he underwent chief and cross-examination for eight and a half years four days a week. The probe team worked in complete coordination, and we were able to collect and present a massive volume of digital evidence before the court, perhaps one of the highest produced in India in a conspiracy case, Paulose said. Malayalam actor assault case: Dileep walks free, targets ex-wife Manju Warrier An officer with the initial probe team led by DySP Babu Kumar, who requested anonymity, said the investigation made a crucial breakthrough linking actor Dileep to the case. During our inquiry, the team uncovered a lead involving an alleged letter written by prime accused N S Sunil, aka Pulsar Suni, which pointed towards Dileep. Based on this, we arrested the actor, he said. After Babu went on deputation, a special investigation team (SIT) was formed with Byju taking charge, he said. Binu P P, an officer with the SIT, said the team encountered numerous hurdles throughout the investigation, though none of them ever stalled the probe itself. Rather, the real obstacles emerged during trial phase. Kerala government to appeal against acquittal of Dileep in 2017 actor assault case

Mollywood post 2017: The quiet yet firm reset

KOCHI: The actor assault case can indeed be imputed for splitting Malayalam cinemas recent history into two distinct phases the before and after. Few events in the states cultural sphere have shaken the collective conscience as profoundly as the 2017 abduction and sexual assault of a prominent actor. The incident not only exposed troubling power imbalances within the industry but also forced long-overdue introspection among its stakeholders. Polarisation was immediate between those who stood with the survivor and those who rallied around the accused actor. Yet the industrys evolution in the years since has been striking, marked by institutional reforms and solidarity among women. A key catalyst for this shift has been the formation of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC). It has been instrumental in pushing for systemic change, advocating for safety, dignity, and gender equity in the workplace. The sustained interventions of WCC kept the issue alive in the public discourse and led to the government making internal complaints committees must across film sets. One of the most significant changes has been the flood of revelations that followed the case. As WCC noted in a post on X: Culture of silence is the term coined by the Justice Hema Committee report to describe the effect of power groups in Malayalam cinema. Fear fuels silence and silence amplifies fear. But once silence is broken, it becomes an opportunity to break the fear as we have seen in our industry. Over the years, production houses have slowly aligned with new expectations. Awareness sessions have become more frequent, contracts include clauses on harassment, and informal hiring networks are giving way to more structured processes. Judge Honey Varghese scripts final chapter in high-profile assault case Implementation remains uneven, but the mindset shift is evident: Female actors and technicians now speak more openly about rights, workplace safety, and pay equity, subjects once considered off limits. Actor and WCC member Archana Padmini said the collective fight of women brought long-suppressed issues to the forefront. Earlier, every abuse was brushed aside by the assertion that we are a family. The conversation on the dignity and rights of female actors found resonance in society Blatant abuses and sexual predation are now almost absent, she told TNIE. Archana said, The fight of the actress gave a sense of direction to thousands of women who say they are thankful to her for standing up As a WCC member, it has meant less work but more respect and dignity in whatever little work I get. Calling it a small but decisive turnaround, she said theres still a long way to go. 'Not the final verdict': Retd DGP B Sandhya on actor assault case verdict

Anand Mahindra keeps tryst with Kadamakkudys serene beauty

KOCHI: Industrialist Anand Mahindra has fulfilled a personal promise, visiting the idyllic Kadamakkudy islands on the outskirts of Kochi and returning utterly captivated by their rustic beauty. His recent visit, following the Mahindra Groups M101 annual leadership conference in the city, has put this tranquil destination firmly on the national, and possibly international, tourism map. Mahindra shared his experience on X, articulating the profound effect the islands had on him. I lived up to a promise I had made to myself, he posted. His description painted a picture of pristine serenity: Clean and pristine. Tranquil kayals (backwaters) stretching as far as the eye can see, with small launches chugging gently along their waters. Egrets and black cormorants, preening and drying themselves in the sun. Mesmerising. He concluded with a poignant observation: Some landscapes dont just impress; they recalibrate you. The visit was the culmination of a desire sparked earlier. In July, Mahindra had posted about Kadamakkudy being often listed amongst the most beautiful villages on earth, adding it to his personal bucket list for his December business trip to Kochi. The industrialists effusive praise instantly set the social media platform alight. The posts garnered widespread attention, with countless users sharing the news and praising the hidden gem. Capitalising on the moment, Kerala Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas had then quickly extended an official invitation, also via X, stating, Always welcome to the land of incredible destinations and experiences Anand Ji @anandmahindra.. It will be a privilege for #KeralaTourism to host you at #Kadamakkudy. The excitement generated by Mahindras spotlight has significantly accelerated plans to improve accessibility to Kadamakkudy, a cluster of 14 tranquil islands. The Kochi Water Metro is actively working to launch its much-anticipated services to the popular tourist destination. Initially, the Water Metro had aimed to start operations to Kadamakkudy in December, a timeline intended to coincide with the industrialists planned visit. The final launch has faced a slight delay. Kochi Metro authorities recently announced that the work of the pontoon installation at Kadamakkudy is still pending, pushing the services commencement to January. Historically, these islands thrived on water-based transport. Therein lies the solution. Water Metro connectivity will be a big boost for the place. The tourism department could also deploy solar boats. Another possibility is bringing in houseboats, after dredging some shallow regions, said Dilraj Nalukandathil, director of GDM Travels, a startup promoting sustainable community tourism. Despite the minor setback, Anand Mahindras commitment to his promise has yielded a significant outcome: transforming a serene, lesser-known island cluster into a must-visit destination. His personal endorsement has provided an invaluable boost to Keralas tourism sector, promising a new era of recognition and connectivity for the islands of Kadamakkudy.

Bun maska-chai: The viral combo sweeping Kerala

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Yummy butter spread between a tasty bun, dipped in hot tea this simple combination has endeared itself to Keralites. Originally from the Irani cafes of Mumbai, the dish is trending all over Kerala, with food vloggers making it the talk of the town. And the origin of this sudden craze for bun maska in the state could be traced to a couple from Kochi The Chai Couple and what they call their single-minded decision. When Saran Dileep and Sreelekshmi T S decided to return from abroad and choose and pursue a passion in Kochi, they were unsure about where to start. An avid tea lover, Sreelekshmi felt there should be a place that answers an everyday question: Where can we get good chai? That thought grew: What if we add some snacks, but not the usual oily ones? Overnight, the duo bought some charts, took a table from their house and borrowed their grandmothers flask. The next morning, they were ready in front of the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in Kaloor, armed with a limited number of buns and some tea. The Chai Couple Cafe, and the viral bun maska-chai combo, took off. Instead of beginning a fully-fledged shop, we thought of experimenting, to see if people like what we offer, said Saran. Maintaining that the dish is their version of bun maska, he said never in their dreams did the two think it would become a statewide trend. Terming it a result of both word of mouth promotion and support of food vloggers, Saran commented they are happy to see the dish going viral. Our confidence is in our customers, said Sreelekshmi, adding that many, including their first-ever tea customer, return to their food spot. One of our customers is even developing our new token system, she said, adding that they have always been keen on not compromising on quality. Food vloggers across the state say the bun maska-tea combo has gone viral. Niyadh Basheer (@foodencyclopediatrivandrum) said the key complaint he hears from foodies is the dish being out of stock. There are shops open till 2am, selling bun maska and tea in Thiruvananthapuram. Techies have taken over spaces in the Technopark side, where they sell bun maska, he said, adding that the capital citys thattukada culture has boosted peoples love for the dish. Devayani S Thilakan (@toastory) says the affordable nature of the dish has made it attractive for college students in Kozhikode. We commonly see students who are visiting the beach, gathering at shops selling the items, she said.

Fronts trade barbs, claim big gains in Kochi on poll eve

Anand Mahindra keeps his promise, visits the 'most beautiful' village in Kerala, and calls its mesmerising

Anand Mahindra fulfilled his December travel promise by visiting Kadamakkudy, a serene floating village near Kochi. He described the tranquil Kerala backwaters, dotted with launches and abundant birdlife, as among the most beautiful villages on earth. This archipelago of 14 islands offers a glimpse into vibrant rural life, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Kerala government to appeal against acquittal of Dileep in 2017 actor assault case

KOCHI: The Kerala government on Monday announced that it will appeal against the verdict of the Ernakulam District and Principal Sessions Court that acquitted actor Dileep in the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case. Law Minister P Rajeeve said the government stands firmly with the survivor and will take all necessary legal steps to ensure that justice is pursued to its fullest extent. The court had found accused 1 to 6including prime accused Sunil N S, alias Pulsar Suniguilty, while acquitting accused 7 to 11. Dileep, the eighth accused, was among those cleared of all charges after the court held that the prosecution failed to prove the conspiracy allegation. Rajeeve said every stage of the investigation and prosecution was carried out in close consultation with the survivor and the prosecution team. From the very beginning, we have remained committed to supporting the survivor and upholding her faith in the justice system. Our resolve is clear and unwavering, he said. The government will decide its next legal course after studying the full judgment, he added.

Kerala court acquits actor Dileep, convicts six in 2017 actress assault case

Kochi: A Kerala court on Monday acquitted Malayalam actor Dileep in the 2017 sexual assault case involving a south Indian actress, while finding six others, including prime accused Sunil N S alias Pulsar Suni, who directly committed the crime, guilty. Apart from Dileep, the court also acquitted three others in the case. The verdict was Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Dileep targets former wife Manju, calls actor assault case a 'conspiracy' after acquittal

KOCHI: Moments after his acquittal in the 2017 actor abduction cas e, actor Dileep launched a sharp attack on his former wife, actor Manju Warrier, alleging that the eal conspiracy against him began after she hinted at foul play in the case. The conspiracy against me began after Manju claimed there was a conspiracy behind the case, Dileep said, directly linking her public statements to what he described as a coordinated attempt to frame him. He alleged that a senior official and certain criminal police officers then moved to push the investigation in a particular direction. According to him, the police fabricated a false story in collusion with the co-accused inside the jail and amplified it through mainstream and social media with the help of certain news channels and journalists. But today, that false story has collapsed before the court, he said. The real conspiracy was to implicate me to destroy my career, my reputation, and my life. The actor thanked his family, friends and the crores of people who supported him throughout the eight-year legal battle. They stood with me even without seeing or hearing me, he said. Dileep also mentioned his ex-wife and actor, Manju Warrier's speech, made at the Durbar Hall in Kochi, saying it led to the case being 'framed against him'. @MSKiranPrakash @PaulCithara @pendown #Dileep #ActorAssaultCase #Kerala pic.twitter.com/h0yInWE7ix TNIE Kerala (@xpresskerala) December 8, 2025 2017 Kerala actor abduction case: Vagaries and vicissitudes of justice

Actor Dileep acquitted in 2017 Kerala actor assault and abduction case

A Kerala court on Monday found actor Dileep, accused number eight, not guilty in the 2017 actor assault case. The case relates to the abduction and alleged sexual assault of a leading Malayalam actor inside her car for nearly two hours in Kochi on February 17, 2017. Dileep was accused no 8 in the case.

Supreme Court to hear petition against Paliyekkara toll resumption

KOCHI: The Supreme Court is set to commence a crucial hearing on Monday in the appeal filed by KPCC secretary Shaji K Kodankandath, challenging the Kerala High Courts order that allowed the resumption of toll collection at the highly contentious Paliyekkara toll plaza on the Angamaly-Mannuthy stretch of National Highway 544. The plea is the latest in a prolonged battle that centres around the poor condition of the stretch and the concessionaires right to levy user fees. A severe traffic congestion, largely stemming from the ongoing construction of underpasses and other infrastructure work along the busy corridor, had earlier seen the High Court suspending toll collection on August 6. The court underscored a fundamental principle: the publics obligation to pay toll hinges on the road authority, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) in this case, ensuring a safe and obstruction-free experience. Subsequently, the NHAI and the concessionaire Guruvayoor Infrastructure Ltd challenged the High Courts order in the Supreme Court, which initially upheld the ban, emphatically stating that commuters cannot be compelled to pay tolls for poorly maintained roads. The apex court also noted that the citizen who pays the toll has the right to demand well-maintained roads. However, the legal landscape shifted on October 17 when the High Court, after receiving status reports and noting efforts by an interim traffic management committee, lifted the suspension of toll collection. Crucially, the High Court prevented the NHAI from collecting an enhanced toll from motorists until further orders, acknowledging that the matter was still under judicial watch due to continuing grievances. The latest appeal by Shaji Kodankandath challenges the allowance of the resumption of the toll. The resumption was permitted without fully guaranteeing safe and smooth passage for thousands of daily commuters. An expert committee, including the district collector, in its interim report submitted to the court, pointed out that tarring was not carried out in a scientific manner and that waterlogging persisted due to the unscientific construction of drains. Also, the petition included a plea that the toll should be cut in line with the traffic congestion, which was not considered by the High Court. Hence this petition, Shaji said.

2017 Kerala actor abduction case: Vagaries and vicissitudes of justice

KOCHI: The case, already fraught with twists, turns, and explosive revelations, deepened into one of Keralas most unsettling judicial sagas. The prosecution claimed this was the first time in the history of criminal law that a quotation had been issued for committing rape. In another major development, a memory card containing crucial visuals of the assault, kept in the trial courts safe custody, was found to have been accessed multiple times without authorisation, with forensic reports confirming changes in its hash value. Allegations also surfaced that the accused had established contact with the trial judge, raising serious concerns about the fairness of the proceedings. In the early phase of the probe, prime accused Pulsar Suni misled sleuths with a fabricated story about dumping the primary phone, a crucial piece of evidence, into the Kochi backwaters from Goshree bridge. Five Navy divers searched for hours on February 27, 2017, but found nothing. To this day, the original phone and memory card have not been recovered. As the investigation progressed, the police arraigned actor Dileep. Surprisingly, his second wife Kavya Madhavan moved an anticipatory bail application, claiming Dileep did not know Suni by name or face. The petition said that filmmaker Sreekumar Menon, who had long-standing enmity with Dileep, could have influenced the accusations. The petition was disposed of after the prosecution clarified that Kavya was not an accused. In a bombshell disclosure in 2022, it was revealed that the memory card had been tampered with while in the courts custody. The Forensic Science Lab found that the card had been used on a Vivo mobile phone with an Android operating system, with apps such as Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram installed. It was accessed on January 9, 2018, December 13, 2018, and again on July 19, 2021. The High Court noted that the first two accesses occurred at odd hours with no connection to court proceedings and issued guidelines for handling sexually explicit evidence in trial courts. A later probe by the trial court found that Leena Rasheed, the then Judicial First Class Magistrate Court (JFCM) judge, Angamaly; Mahesh Mohan, senior clerk of the Principal and Sessions Court (now an HC judge); and Thajudeen, then sheristadar of the trial court, Ernakulam, had accessed the card. Further action on the report remains pending. In the subsequent investigation, based on revelations by late filmmaker Balachandra Kumar, former police officer R Sreelekha made statements in favour of Dileep, claiming he was innocent and falsely implicated. She also alleged that the mobile phone used by Suni in jail was supplied by the police to fabricate evidence and contradicted several findings of the investigation. Sreelekha, who served as director general of prisons during Dileeps custody, was questioned by police in this regard. Another surprising turn was when the survivor petitioned the HC, blaming trial court judge Honey M Varghese of bias and harbouring a hostile attitude, and seeking a new judge. Interestingly, judge Honey was appointed after the survivor had requested for a woman judge to oversee proceedings. However, after allegations of bias arose, both the survivor and the state government filed multiple petitions to transfer the case to a different court. But it was rejected. (Concluded) Milestones & millstones Three-phased investigation The first phase began on February 18, 2017, led by Vishal Johnson, then CI, Aluva. The probe was later taken over by Babukumar, then DySP, Aluva, who filed the final report against seven accused before the JFMC, Angamaly on April 18, 2017. A report for further investigation was submitted on May 18, 2017, indicating a wider criminal conspiracy. On the same day, Baiju Poulose M was appointed investigating officer. He continues in that role. Prosecutors move aside Two prosecutors resigned, citing issues with the trial judge. Special public prosecutor A Suresan stepped down in December 2020 after raising objections to allegedly derogatory remarks made by the judge. He was replaced by V N Anilkumar on January 3, 2021, who put in his papers during the cross-examination of prosecution witness 202. Following this, additional public prosecutor Sunil Kumar K B completed the examination of several witnesses until February 7, 2022. V Ajayakumar was appointed special public prosecutor on February 18, 2022. Three turn approvers Vipinlal (the 10th accused) and P K Aneesh (the 14th accused and then civil police officer) were pardoned by the CJM, Ernakulam, after they turned approvers. On February 17, 2021, the court also accepted the plea of another accused, Vishnu, to turn approver. Vishnu had allegedly arranged a mobile phone and SIM for the first accused, Pulsar Suni, while he was lodged in the Kakkanad jail. Prolonged cross-examination The cross-examination of the investigating officer, Baiju (witness number 261), lasted eight months and seven days, making it one of the longest cross-examinations of a police officer in the states history. Dileeps counsel examined him for 95 days. The Supreme Court expressed concern over the extended process. 28 witnesses, including actors, turn hostile Several film actors turned hostile, including Bhama, Bindu Panicker, Siddique, Edavela Babu, and producer Renjith, despite their initial statements helping the prosecution establish Dileeps alleged enmity towards the survivor and outline the conspiracy.Bhama and Siddique had initially told police that Dileep openly threatened the survivor at a rehearsal venue in Kochis Hotel Abad Plaza, even making remarks about setting her on fire. Both also acknowledged Dileeps anger over the survivors role in exposing his relationship with Kavya. They later retracted these statements.Babu had earlier deposed that the survivor submitted a written complaint to industry body AMMA against Dileep, alleging he denied her opportunities in films. However, during examination, Babu stated he did not remember such a complaint. Witness examined online The late filmmaker, Balachandra Kumar, who made crucial revelations against Dileep, was examined for 49 days. During the process, he fell ill, and for 37 of those days, his examination was conducted online. Accused A1 Sunil N S aka Pulsar Suni A2 Martin Antony A3 Manikandan B A4 Vijeesh VP A5 Salim H aka Vadival Salim A6 Pradeep A7 Charly Thomas A8 P Gopalakrishnan aka Dileep A9 Sanilkumar aka Mesthiri Sanil A10 Sarath G Nair Two accused, advocates Pratheesh Chacko and Raju Joseph, were discharged during the course of the trial. Three persons initially implicated in the case later turned approvers Charges Accused 1 to 6 and 8th faced trial for charges under Sections 120A (when two or more persons agree to do, or cause to be done: an illegal act), 120B (criminal conspiracy), 342 (wrongful confinement), 354 (assault or use of criminal force on a woman with intent to outrage her modesty), 354B (assault or use of criminal force to woman with intent to disrobe), 357 (assault or use of criminal force on any person), 376D (gang rape), 201 (causing disappearance of evidence), 366 (kidnapping or abducting a woman), 506 (i) (criminal intimidation), and 109 r/w 34 (aiding or abetting a crime) of IPC and Section 66E and 67A of IT Act Eighth accused Dileep was additionally charged under Sections 201 (aiding or abetting a crime) and 204 (destruction of document or electronic record to prevent its production as evidence) The seventh accused was charged under Section 212 (harbouring an offender) of IPC. The ninth accused was charged under Sections 120 B (criminal conspiracy and 109 (instigating or aiding a crime). The 10th accused faced trial for offence under Section 201 (causing disappearance of evidence of offence, or giving false information to screen offender)

Verdict in 2017 Kerala actor abduction, assault case today

KOCHI: Over eight years after the traumatic incident and nearly five years since the start of trial, the long-awaited verdict in the 2017 actor abduction and sexual assault case is set to be delivered at 11am on Monday. Ernakulam District and Principal Sessions Court judge Honey M Varghese will pass the verdict following extensive trial proceedings that commenced on January 30, 2020. Actor Dileep is the eighth accused in the case that shook Kerala. According to the prosecution, the survivor was abducted by a six-member gang and raped by first accused N S Sunil aka Pulsar Suni inside a moving car in Ernakulam on February 17, 2017. He also recorded the brutal assault on his mobile phone. Special public prosecutor V Ajakumar told TNIE the prosecution took all necessary steps to ensure the culprits were brought before the law. The prosecution produced all digital and documentary evidence, including CCTV visuals and material, to prove the offences levelled against the accused persons, he said, adding that the primary conspiracy was between Suni and actor Dileep to allegedly record videos of the sexual assault in order to defame and demoralise the survivor. After filing the chargesheet against the first six accused, the special investigation team moved against Dileep to establish the conspiracy. Dileep appeared before the team on July 5, 2017, and was questioned for around 12 hours. After gathering additional evidence, the police arrested him on July 10. He remained in jail for 86 days before being released on bail on October 3, 2017. According to the prosecution, Dileep believed the survivor had divulged to his wife Manju Warrier news of his relationship with Kavya Madhavan. The prosecution said its conspiracy case rests on a meticulous reconstruction of events, communications, custodial disclosures, and digital evidence, all of which point to a covert agreement between Dileep and Suni. The proceedings witnessed tensions, with both the prosecution and the victim filing petitions alleging bias by the trial judge. By the time 80 witnesses were examined, petitions seeking transfer of the case were filed, which were dismissed by the High Court. During the trial, 261 witnesses were examined.

Antony Kattiparambil ordained 36th bishop of Diocese of Cochin

KOCHI: Ending a one-and-a-half-year wait, Monsignor Antony Kattiparambil was on Sunday ordained bishop of the Roman Catholic Churchs Cochin diocese. The ceremony, held at the Parade Ground in Fort Kochi, was presided over by the Archbishop of Goa and Daman and seventh Patriarch of the East Indies, Cardinal Filipe Neri Antnio Sebastio do Rosrio Ferro. Antony Kattiparambil is the 36th bishop of the diocese, the churchs mother diocese in Kerala. The post remained vacant following the resignation of Bishop Joseph Kariyil on March 2, 2024. Bishop James Anaparambil of Alleppey was appointed administrator on October 12, 2024. Born in Mundamveli, Bishop Kattiparambil is the fifth Keralite and also the fifth Kochiite to lead the diocese since its establishment in 1557. The ceremony began with a procession from the bishops house to Santa Cruz Cathedral. Kattiparambil was accompanied by bishops in their ceremonial vestments, along with members of the clergy and the laity. The bishop-designate and staff laid a wreath at one of the remaining pillars of the first basilica, which was founded in 1505 and demolished by the British in 1806. Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferro was the main celebrant of the ordination ceremony. The metropolitan of Varappuzha archdiocese, Dr Joseph Kalathiparambil, and Bishop Kariyil were co-celebrants. Kattiparambil lays a wreath at one of the remaining pillars of the first basilica at Santa Cruz Cathedral in Kochi. The Vatican ambassador and nuncio to India, Archbishop Dr Leopoldo Girelli, head of the Syro-Malabar Church Raphael Thattil, president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of India Andrews Thazhath, and president of the Kerala Latin Catholic Bishops Conference Archbishop Varghese Chakkalakkal, delivered the benediction sermons. The bishop-designates classmate and metropolitan of the archdiocese of Thalassery, Joseph Pamplany, delivered the homily. In his oration, Mar Pamplany said, When I looked up the etymology of the name Antony, I came across a reference to the Greek anthos, which means flower or blossom... Bishop Kattiparambil is a native flower who was born in Kochi, bloomed in Kochi, exudes the fragrance of Kochi and carries the love for Kochi in his heart. Unlike the negative publicity that Catholic priests have been attracting for some time, the announcement of Bishop Kattiparambils ordination attracted a deluge of positive comments and posts on social media, he added. The ceremony ended with the celebration of Holy Mass by Bishop Kattiparambil, followed by benedictory addresses by Cardinal Girelli, Mar Thattil, Mar Thazhath and Archbishop Chakkalakal.

Kerala local body polls: Broad narratives and ground realities

KOCHI: This has been a local-body election in which local concerns have been swept up by broader narratives. Instead of the familiar neighbourhood chatter on roads, drainage, or local development, high-voltage, state-level storylines from the dramatic episodes involving MLA Rahul Mamkootathil to the contentious gold-theft allegations linked to Sabarimala have permeated even the tiniest wards. Yet, amid this political noise, analysts insist that the final verdict will still be shaped by ground realities. In the end, it is micro-issues, visible development outcomes, and the sense of direct accountability that guide voter choices. The stakes have never been higher for the LDF, UDF, and NDA, observes Prof Pramod C R with the department of political science at Thrissur Sree Kerala Varma College. With barely six months left for the assembly elections, he notes, this contest is widely viewed as the crucial semi-final. All three fronts are attempting to frame the polls through state-level narratives driven from the top, according to Pramod. The LDF moved early to set the tone, projecting the narrative of a historic third term long before the campaign season began. They are seeking a mandate for continuity and development, with MLAs aggressively reinforcing this message at the grassroots, he explains. The UDF, compelled to counter the LDFs development narrative, has shifted focus towards the governments perceived failures. While they hope to tap into anti-incumbency, the front is simultaneously grappling with organisational weaknesses and internal discord challenges that make presenting a unified message more difficult. Meanwhile, the NDA is treating this election as an extension of its performance in the last Lok Sabha election. Its strategy is unambiguous: Expand its vote share by capitalising on recent momentum, Pramod points out. In the end, it is micro-issues, visible development outcomes, and the sense of direct accountability that guide voter choices. But despite these loud, dramatic agendas, he cautions that they may not decisively influence voter behaviour. Ultimately, people vote based on what they can see and experience tangible improvements, accessible services, and developments that affect their daily lives, he emphasises. Prof Ravindranathan P, of the department of geopolitics and international relations at Manipal University, emphasises the importance of a candidates performance in local elections. People evaluate what the ward member does and how efficiently he manages to do it. In fact, accountability is high in local polls... they are able to hold the person accountable and may even ask or question him on his failures, whereas such accountability is limited for MLAs and MPs. Rural constituencies present a more layered terrain, according to him. Welfare delivery, agricultural sustainability, local employment, cooperative sector management, and the functioning of panchayats remain central, he added. Krishnakumar K K, senior fellow at the Centre for Socio-economic and Environmental Studies (CSES), notes that in Keralas local elections, the candidate is the most important factor. Because it happens in a small area, and the major factor that comes into play is his or her appeal, accessibility, willingness to involve in issues, etc., rather than polity or development manifesto. He emphasises that trust and credibility are crucial for the people, and the ward member serves as the last-mile connectivity between the state machinery and the people. The top-driven narratives finally do not matter in the most hyper-local wards, whereas as the unit of election gets bigger, the personal appeal of the member gets diluted and other elements like politics, development agenda, winnability of the political front, etc., start getting mattered. According to Krishnakumar, the job of a ward member or councilor is extremely challenging, with minimal honorarium and little appreciation. He states, They have to be at the beck and call of the people, and they gauge the member by his willingness to do even the smallest task. Despite the swirl of state politics, the final outcome will most likely hinge on the micro-performance and personal credibility of individual candidates. In the end, the ward members effectiveness matters the most. Were they able to bring funds? Make use of state schemes? Build roads? Distribute laptops? More importantly, were they present and responsive when people needed them? Pramod adds.

LDF, UDF draw up independent route to win Kizhakkambalam

KOCHI: Aiming to defeat the Kitex-backed Twenty20 party, which has dominated the Kizhakkambalam panchayat for the past 10 years, both the Congress-led UDF and the CPM-led LDF have fielded independent candidates to avoid a possible splitting of votes in the upcoming local body elections. Out of the total 21 wards, the CPM has fielded a candidate only in the Choorakode ward, while the Congress has candidates in four wards Choorakode, Kanamburam, Kummanode and Kunnathukudy. BJP has also fielded candidates in four wards Pukkattupady, Kanamburam, Choorakode and Kummanode. A total of 59 independent candidates are in the fray in the panchayat. Following the move, the Twenty20 party leadership alleged that the LDF and the UDF have fielded common independent candidates to defeat the Twenty20 candidates in the panchayat. V Gopakumar, state vice-president of Twenty20, told TNIE that the workers of both CPM and Congress are working together in the panchayat. Congress and CPM party workers are campaigning for the same independent candidates. In some wards, they have a common party election office too. The aim is to defeat the Twenty20 party candidates, he said. After this years delimitation exercise, the number of wards has increased to 21. Earlier, when asked about their candidates in the panchayat, UDF and LDF leaders had denied having any understanding or tie-up between the two fronts. Between 2010 and 2015, the UDF was in power in the local body. In 2015, Twenty20 wrested the panchayat by winning 17 out of 19 wards. In 2020, the party won in 18 wards. After this years delimitation exercise, the number of wards has increased to 21. Meanwhile, the SDPI has also fielded two candidates in the panchayat. In the 2015 elections, SDPI candidate Abdul Rahman had won from the Kavanguparambu ward. The Twenty20 party, launched in 2013 with a medical camp in the area, gained public support through a series of development and welfare initiatives in Kizhakkambalam. Gopakumar added that UDF and LDF have candidates in the other three Twenty20-ruled panchayats Aikkaranad, Mazhuvannoor and Kunnathunad.

Antony Kattiparambil ordained as 36th Bishop of Kochi

Big Biennale loading...

Adding more merry to the festive season, the countdown to the countrys biggest art carnival has begun. The sixth edition of the 110-day Kochi-Muziris Biennale (KMB), titled For the Time Being, will open on December 12. TNIE walked the Biennale route in the Fort Kochi - Mattancherry area to get a sense of how preparations are shaping up for the mega festival. There is indeed an air of excitement and suspense around the venues. Artists, officials, contractors, architects, and workers are racing to ready all venues for the opening day. Tourists, meanwhile, pause to enquire about the goings-on. Hearing hammering and welding sounds from the heritage structure of Arthshila Kochi, a German tourist asks whether a renovation was under way. No, its the Kochi Biennale, replies a young volunteer, who goes on to explain the nitty gritty. Though initially disappointed that he would miss the event because of his holiday schedule, the tourist brightens up upon learning the Biennale runs until March. Oh, so I will plan another trip I will be back here, he beams. This years Biennale will showcase 66 artist projects from more than 25 countries, under the curatorial direction of Nikhil Chopra with HH Art Space, Goa. Eight venues will host the highlight exhibitions. A highlight is the display of works at St Andrew Parish Hall (Students Biennale), Fort Kochi, by young artists from the northeast, curated by the Anga Art Collective. St Andrew Parish Hall (Students Biennale), Fort Kochi This heritage hall will host budding artists from across India, transforming its corners, walls, and floors with their creations. A key highlight is the display of works by young artists from the northeast, curated by the Anga Art Collective. Introducing two young women artists from Arunachal Pradeshs Adi tribe in Upper Siang district, the curator notes that their project addresses menstrual issues. Overall, there will be 10 projects from the northeast. Another standout is an interactive project on Naturalism by Mahalakshmi, an MFA student from Chennai. Additional Students Biennale venues include BMS Warehouse, SPACE, Arthshila, and VKL Warehouse. The hall will also feature invitation projects. Arthshila Kochi (Students Biennale), Fort Kochi This revitalised heritage structure on Parade Road will house installations, new media works, documentary projects, and site-responsive pieces. Students Biennale projects here explore material ecologies, migration, digital identities, and climate anxieties concerns resonating strongly with emerging artists across the subcontinent. David Hall, Fort Kochi Built around 1695 by the Dutch East India Company as the residence of Governor Hendrik Adriaan van Rheede tot Drakenstein, David Hall will soon feature artwork by an artist from Nairobi. The project is curated by the Nairobi Contemporary Art Institute (NCAI). The building later took its name from Jewish businessman David Koder. Other invitation venues include Space, Simi Warehouse, Oottupura, Jail of Freedom Struggle, and Devassy Jose & Sons, which will also host residencies. Arthshila Kochi (Students Biennale), Fort Kochi, where Students' Bienale projects will be shown. Anand Warehouse Pepper House, Fort Kochi A central courtyard installation by Utsa Hazarika an artist and writer based in New York will anchor the space. Her research-driven practice spans video, installation, and sculpture. Anand Warehouse, Mattancherry A major draw here will be Parliament of Ghosts by Ibrahim Mahama, known for large-scale collaborative installations, drawings, and sculptures. The project is being realised with the labour of Mattancherry women and materials sourced from local furniture shops. It is supported by the Sandeep and Gitanjali Maini Foundation. Nine artists will exhibit at this venue. Simi Warehouse, Mattancherry Alice Yard, a contemporary art collective from Trinidad and Tobago, will present An Instigators Handbook for Play, Friendship, Generosity and Autonomy. Devassy Jose Building. SPACE, Mattancherry Artists Jyoti Bhatt and Sujith S N will feature as part of the KMB exhibition here, alongside invitation and Students Biennale projects. Cube Art Space, Mattancherry This venue will host the final work by celebrated artist Vivan Sundaram, who passed away in 2023 Six Stations of a Life Pursued, a photography-based installation. It is structured as a journey marked by six stations, each a pause to release pain, witness beauty, confront horror, relinquish memory, and reclaim life. Aspinwall House & Directors Bungalow, Fort Kochi The Biennales most prestigious venue is nearing completion and promises to impress visitors. Installations and projects are being set up in the coir godown and the directors bungalow, while the garden will feature three outdoor installations, each presenting distinct concepts and visions. Twenty-five artists will exhibit here. Srishti Hall. The Pavilion, Bastion Bungalow, Fort Kochi Expected to be one of the liveliest venues, this Pavilion will host performances, sessions, and talks, and can accommodate around 250 people. Adjacent to it is a dedicated space for the Art by Children (ABC) project, which will also run near the Fort Kochi Water Metro terminal. New additions Other noteworthy venues include Willingdon Island Warehouse, hosting 12 artists including Marina Abramovi and Sabitha Kadannappally, and Durbar Hall, where works by Gulam Mohammed Sheikh will be shown, curated by the Kiran Nadar Museum of Art.

Try mediation, says SC in sexual abuse case involving Litmus 7 Systems CEO

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday urged parties involved in a sexual harassment case against Venu Gopalakrishnan, CEO of Kochis Litmus 7 Systems Consulting, to explore mediation to resolve their dispute. A bench comprising Justices B V Nagarathna and K V Viswanathan said, ...We find that in the interest of all parties, there ought to be a settlement. The matter is referred to the Supreme Court Mediation Centre. The parties are directed to appear before the Centre on 07.01.2026 in person or through videoconferencing. On September 11, the Kerala High Court had denied anticipatory bail to Gopalakrishnan, citing the very serious nature of allegations. The other accused in the case Jacob P Thampy, Eby Paul, and Bimalraj Haridas were granted anticipatory bail. Gopalakrishnan had approached the Supreme Court, which on September 26 stayed all coercive actions against him. Senior counsels Mukul Rohatgi and Raghenth Basant, representing the petitioner, said the complainant, a former employee, had filed the charges after getting bail in an extortion case initiated by Gopalakrishnan. Justice Nagarathna expressed skepticism about the harassment claims. The accused alleged the woman and her husband had demanded Rs 30 crore during a hotel meeting on July 23, including an immediate Rs 10 crore transfer, with Rs 50,000 transferred from Venus account on July 28. The couple was arrested for extortion soon after. The woman denied knowledge of the Rs 50,000 transfer and alleged sexual harassment. The next hearing is on February 2.

Crime branch probes claims linking Dileep to Pulsar Suni, threats to investigators

KOCHI: On November 25, 2021, while the trial in the case was progressing, fresh trouble surfaced for the eighth accused, actor Dileep. Filmmaker P Balachandra Kumar levelled grave allegations, claiming that Dileep possessed a copy of the visuals of the assault captured by prime accused Pulsar Suni. He also alleged a close relationship between the two and accused Dileep of conspiring to endanger the lives of investigating officers. The revelations led the Crime Branch to register a fresh case against Dileep and others. In a petition submitted to the chief minister, Kumar said he visited Dileep at his Padmasarovaram residence in Aluva on December 26, 2016, to discuss a movie. On that day, he happened to travel with Suni, who was at the house along with Anoop, Dileeps brother, in a red Maruti Swift car. Anoop introduced Suni to him during the trip. From Anoops words, I understood that the young man had a lot of money with him and was taking it somewhere, Kumar stated. He also referred to a deliberation he had with Dileep on Suni, when the actor allegedly revealed certain details about the sexual assault. They met again on April 15, 2017, in Thiruvananthapuram as part of talks over the movie Professor Dinkan. When Kumar brought up Suni, Dileep reportedly responded saying that nothing happened, before going on to describe the abuse in detail, as though he had witnessed it firsthand. Dileep also instructed the director not to disclose the fact that Suni had visited his residence. In his plea, Balachandrakumar said that on September 12, Anoop, over a WhatsApp call, relayed the desire of Dileep, who was then in jail, to meet him. He met Dileep at Aluva sub jail the next day. Emerging from the meeting, he found Dileeps brother and brother-in-law waiting outside, and the latter handed him `50,000. According to Kumar, Anoop messaged him again, on October 6, to convey Dileeps intention to hold another meeting. The two met at a house in North Paravoor, and spent the entire day together. Dileep repeated the warning not to disclose that Suni had been to his house. The petitioner further stated that he visited Dileep on the morning of November 15 for discussions on a film. During their conversation, Dileeps friend Baiju arrived and the conversation veered toward the clips. Growing suspicious, Kumar recorded parts of the exchange, claiming that the recording pertained to offences in this case. He also recorded a phone conversation between Dileep and Anoop where they talked about how a witness had been influenced and that `5 lakh had been spent for this purpose. Dileep allegedly said that he could have easily coughed up `1.5 crore. Hearing this, his brother-in-law Suraj remarked that Suni could have collected the money from any place of his choice. Another friend of Dileep arrived and discussed the investigation and a plot to attack Suni and his gang on their release from jail. The filmmaker said that on the same day, a person who had come to meet Dileep entered the room with a tablet. Dileep, Suraj, Anoop, and another man named Appu watched a video, and Dileep invited Balachandrakumar to view it, saying it showed the cruel deeds of Pulsar Suni. In his petition to the CM, Kumar expressed the fear that Dileep or his associates may kill him, and that the actors manager had urged him not to reveal anything for his own safety. He produced a pen drive containing 24 voice clips to substantiate his allegations. Based on his revelations, the ADGP (crimes) of the crime branch headquarters in Thiruvananthapuram registered a case on January 9, 2022. The crime branch found that within days of Kumars disclosure, Dileep and others had discontinued using their mobile phones, concealed them and begun using new ones. Dileep deliberately withheld a phone he had used for 221 days, during which time he had made 2,075 calls, claiming it was not in his possession. Investigators identified 81 points from Kumars statements and collected evidence connecting them. Dileep and five others were booked under sections 116 (abetment), 118 (concealing design to commit offence), 506 (criminal intimidation) and 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the IPC. Following the revelations, the survivor approached the High Court, submitting that further investigation was necessary to arrive at the truth. (to be concluded)

Kerala HC restrains police from arresting Rahul Mamkootathil

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court on Saturday restrained the police from arresting Rahul Mamkootathil, MLA, until December 15 in a case registered against him for allegedly raping a woman and forcing her to terminate her pregnancy. When the anticipatory bail plea came up for hearing, Justice K Babu said the matter would be posted for a detailed hearing. During the pendency of the case, I will not permit the police to arrest the petitioner because he has raised serious contentions, the court observed. No man shall be condemned unless heard. When a matter is pending before a constitutional court, he will not be arrested. The petitioners case is that it was a consensual relationship. And admittedly, there is a consensual relationship, Justice Babu added. Though T A Shaji, Director General of Prosecution opposed the order, the court declined to accept it and posted the hearing of the case to December 15. The petitioner argued that political motives are influencing the case, particularly with elections approaching.

Fringe political players eye local gains in Kerala, challenging Keralas dominant fronts

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Meet the political parties that command other states but barely make a blip on Keralas electoral radar. Branded as fringe actors, the modest seat tallies of such parties are often mocked when set against the states entrenched fronts. Yet political observers caution that dismissing them outright may be a mistake. Their strength in select strongholds could send out quiet tremors capable of nudging the trajectories of Keralas major political fronts. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leads the pack in terms of the sheer number of candidates fielded in the upcoming local body election. The party, that once ruled Delhi and is now in power in Punjab, had entered the civic election arena in 2015 with around 80 candidates but failed to open its account. AAP first tasted success in 2023 when its candidate won a panchayat ward in Idukki in a bypoll. In the upcoming civic polls, AAP has fielded a total of 380 candidates across various local bodies in all districts. We will put up an impressive performance in this local body election and are particularly confident of winning seats in Kozhikode and Kochi corporations and a district panchayat division in Idukki, said Vinod Mathew Wilson, AAP state president. AAP could be an alternative for voters who are averse to the ideologies and practices of the three major fronts. But it would be a form of negative voting that is not beneficial in the long run. Instead, AAP should offer positive alternatives such as revival of the anti-corruption plank on which it was originally based, and taking up issues facing the marginalised sections and the downtrodden to stay relevant, opined Prof M N Karassery, political observer and social critic. Meanwhile, DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam), the ruling party in neighbouring Tamil Nadu, is upbeat about a rousing performance in the local body election in Kerala. The party, led by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin, has fielded candidates in 23 wards. Of these, nine candidates are in Kollams Punalur municipality and one in Thenmala grama panchayat while.the remaining 13 have been fielded in Devikulam and Peermade taluks of Idukki. It is for the first time that DMK is contesting under the partys official rising sun symbol in Kerala, and we are confident of a good show this time around, said K R Murugesan, DMK Kerala state secretary. Punalur has been a stronghold of the Dravidian party for many years. Notably, in the 2023 election to Punalur Service Cooperative Bank that falls under the municipal limits, all 13 candidates fielded by the DMK came second, pushing the UDF to third spot. AIADMK (All Indian Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam), the main opposition party in Tamil Nadu, has been a player in Keralas electoral scene for the past few decades. As the partys official two-leaves symbol has been reserved for Kerala Congress (M) in the state, the partys candidates have been contesting under the hat symbol. As many as 30 AIADMK candidates are contesting the upcoming local body election, mostly in its strongholds in Idukki and Palakkad. We have renewed our ties with the BJP-led NDA alliance in Tamil Nadu but in Kerala we have decided to go it alone. In the two wards where our candidates are contesting in Thiruvananthapuram district, the BJP is also in the fray, pointed out Haribabu V Pillai, Kerala state secretary, AIADMK. He added that the party would put up an impressive performance in Idukki and Palakkad districts where it has fielded candidates in 16 and 12 wards respectively. We are hopeful of improving our tally in 2015 when we won as many as six wards, he added. Meanwhile, a section of political analysts are of the view that other-state parties see the local body election in Kerala as part of a larger game-plan. For many such parties, fielding candidates is primarily part of reviving their cadre ahead of the assembly election. Though they may not win the seats they contest, the votes they poll would be shown as a sign of strength in certain pockets and used as a bargaining chip against major fronts in the upcoming elections, opined A Jayashankar, political commentator. It is more of a spoiler effect that parties from other states pose in their strongholds in Kerala, Jayasankar said. In areas where linguistic minorities are a sizeable number, disillusionment with the LDF and UDF favours such fringe parties, he said. Most of these voters would have been taken for a ride in successive elections by the dominant fronts and they would naturally be on the lookout for a platform to express their resentment. Whether their favoured candidate would win the election is a different question altogether, he remarked. Meanwhile, the All India Trinamool Congress (AITC), that has made inroads into the migrant population and also minorities in the states hilly areas, has opted out of the fray this time around. Owing to differences between the state unit and its newly appointed state convener P V Anvar, the partys symbol has been frozen by the poll panel. AITC state president C G Unni dismissed claims that independents backed by AITC are contesting the civic elections. The party will face the elections officially only after its internal elections are completed, he added. AIADMK Total candidates THIRUVANANTHAPURAM TPuram municipal corporation: 1 (Medical College ward) Neyyattinkara municipality: 1 (Perumpazhuthoor ward) PALAKKAD Palakkad town & Kozhinjamapara panchayat: 12 candidates IDUKKI Devikulam, Marayoor & Munnar areas: 16 candidates DMK Total candidates KOLLAM (10) Punalur municipality: 9 wards Thenmala grama panchayat: 1 ward IDUKKI (13) Devikulam taluk: 7 Peermade taluk: 6

Supreme Court suggests mediation in sexual harassment case involving Kerala tech CEO

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Friday suggested that the parties involved in a sexual harassment case against Venu Gopalakrishnan, CEO of a Kochi-based IT firm, attempt mediation to settle their differences. A bench of Justices B V Nagarathna and K V Viswanathan referred the matter to the Supreme Court Mediation Centre and directed both sides to appear before it on January 7, 2026. We have heard learned senior counsel for the petitioner, learned counsel for the respondentState as well as the learned counsel for the complainant. Having regard to the facts of this case, we find that in the interest of all parties, there ought to be a settlement. Hence, we adjourn this matter. In order to explore the possibility of a settlement between the parties, the matter is referred to the Supreme Court Mediation Centre. The parties are directed to appear before the Centre on 07.01.2026 either in person or through videoconferencing at 11.30 am, the bench said. Fixing the case for its next hearing on February 2, 2026, the bench also directed that the mediators report be placed on record. Earlier, on September 11, the Kerala High Court had refused anticipatory bail to Gopalakrishnan, CEO of Litmus 7 Systems Consulting Private Limited, observing that the offences alleged against him are very serious and that, given his alleged influence, there was a risk of his influencing witnesses or tampering with evidence. The High Court, however, granted pre-arrest bail to the other accused, Jacob P Thampy, Eby Paul and Bimalraj Haridas. Gopalakrishnan then approached the Supreme Court, which on September 26 directed that no coercive steps be taken against him in the interim. On Friday, Senior Advocates Mukul Rohatgi and Raghenth Basant, appearing for the petitioner, submitted that the woman, a former employee, filed the case against Gopalakrishnan and three others after obtaining bail in an extortion complaint he had lodged. After hearing the parties, Justice Nagarathna voiced doubts regarding the sexual harassment allegations, and the court advised both sides to pursue mediation. According to the accused, the woman contacted three company staff members on July 23 and asked them to meet her at a Kochi hotel, where she and her husband allegedly demanded Rs 30 crore to settle the matter. They allegedly sought written assurances and asked him to transfer Rs 10 crore immediately, along with two cheques for the balance. On July 28, Rs 50,000 was transferred from Venus account to her account, and the next day the couple was arrested on extortion charges and remanded to judicial custody. Contradicting this, the woman said that she and her husband were preparing to file a complaint against the CEO when three company representatives arrived for mediation. She alleged that they told her Venu was willing to apologise, and asked the couple to meet at a hotel on July 29, where they were then arrested. She further alleged that Venu transferred Rs 50,000 to her account without her knowledge and detailed several alleged incidents of sexual harassment in her complaint.

Congress terms CMs claims on Kochi Corporation far from reality

The Chief Minister is trying to whitewash the LDF, which had failed to address basic infrastructure issues in the city during its five years of governing the Kochi Corporation, says Ernakulam DCC chief

LDF accuses unholy UDF-BJP nexus in at least four divisions in Kochi Corporation

BJP has allotted seats to BDJS to help the UDF, alleges former Mayor M. Anilkumar

HC gives interim protection from arrest to Rahul Mamkootathil in rape case

Kochi: The Kerala High Court on Saturday gave interim protection from arrest to expelled Congress MLA Rahul Mamkootathil in a case of rape and forced abortion against him. Justice K Babu said the court will hear Mamkootathils anticipatory bail plea on December 15 and till then he should not be arrested. Also ReadRemarks against Army: Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Some IndiGo flights depart from Chennai airport, but spate of cancellations continues

Delays persisted, but from 3 a.m. onwards, flights to cities including Pune, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Bhubaneswar, Jaipur, Coimbatore, and Kochi departed from the city airport

Indigo resumes partial service at Chennai airport with ten flights in the morning

The destinations are Pune, Ahmedabad, Port Blair (two flights), Coimbatore, Guwahati, Kolkata, Bhuvaneshwar, Jaipur and Kochi

Twin LDF terms helped bring changes, says CM Pinarayi Vijayan; Kochi Corporation praised

KOCHI: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday said the two consecutive terms of the LDF government in 2016 and 2021 helped bring major changes and achievements in Kerala. He was inaugurating the LDFs Kochi corporation election convention held on the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium premises in Kaloor on Friday. When the LDF assumed office in 2016, Kerala was in deep crisis due to years of mismanagement, Pinarayi said, adding that sectors including education and health were on the verge of collapse. We put forward proposals to create changes. People accepted them. The devastated sectors were revived. People gave us a second term as the government met their expectations, he said, citing the example of the social security pension dues in 2006 and 2016. When the LDF came to power in 2006, there were 28 months of social security pension dues. The first thing we did after coming to power was clear the pending pension dues. In 2016, it was 18 months. Thats how the UDF functioned. The LDF government, which cleared the arrears, increased the welfare pension from Rs 600 to Rs 1,600 and now to Rs 2,000, the chief minister said. The event was presided over by CPI Ernakulam district secretary N Arun. The chief minister also appreciated the Kochi corporation council for its performance in the past five years. Highlighting a few projects, he said the corporation brought about a change in the city through the initiatives.

INTERVIEW| People will decide on Pinarayi 3.0, party will take a call on me

KOCHI: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday tackled questions on a wide range of issues at a meet-the-press organised by the Ernakulam Press Club. He spoke on local-body polls, KIIFB, appointment of vice chancellors, and more. Edited excerpts: Will the local body election outcome be an evaluation of the governments performance? The evaluation of my government happens every day, through peoples lives. The final evaluation will be done by voters in assembly election. There are reports John Brittas acted as a mediator for the state government on PM SHRI scheme. Congress says this shows an unholy nexus between CPM and BJP... (Laughs) All MPs from Kerala are expected to engage with the Centre to secure the states rightful share. Before this Parliament session, we held a detailed meeting of all MPs, explaining what is due to Kerala and what each of them should do to ensure those issues are taken up effectively. Unfortunately, in the last Lok Sabha, Opposition MPs from Kerala were not willing to confront the Centres discriminatory attitude. This time, we are seeing a slight but welcome change, with MPs taking a more united stand on matters concerning the state. As a CPM member of the Rajya Sabha, John Brittas has been making strong, effective interventions. He has done nothing wrong, despite attempts to portray it otherwise. We will have the assembly election soon. Can we expect a Pinarayi 3.0? That will be decided by the people. But it is for party to take a call on me. In the Sabarimala gold theft case, a CPM district committee member is in jail. Why is the party not taking action? As CM, I should not go into details because the High Court is monitoring the probe... [which] is comprehensive. As a party, we have made it clear that the guilty will not be protected. The governor has forwarded new names for VCs of KTU and the Digital University, ignoring your governments priority list. The Centre and governors in many states are taking steps to undermine federalism. The Supreme Court directed me to submit a priority list...and the governor is expected to select a person from that list. How can he violate the SC directive so openly? IAS officer B Ashok has moved the HC against appointment of K Jayakumar as TDB president. There are also reports of a rift within the board... This should not have happened a serving officer approaching the court against his own government. Jayakumar was appointed because of his expertise in matters relating to Sabarimala. Devotees have welcomed his appointment. There is no friction within the board. All members have accepted his leadership wholeheartedly. ED has faulted the deployment of proceeds from KIIFBs masala bonds. Is this political? Such actions often appear close to elections. KIIFB was created as an alternative funding mechanism, and every project has followed RBI norms. Over Rs 90,000 crore worth of projects have been taken up. There has not been a single violation... We stand firmly by KIIFBs work.

2017 Kerala actor abduction case: Pulsar Sunis jail letter pulls Dileep into shadow of conspiracy

KOCHI: In the days following the horrific assault inside a moving SUV in Kochi, Malayalam film industry insiders joined hands in grief and outrage. Among them was actor Dileep, who publicly expressed solidarity and vowed to support his colleagues pursuit of justice. But within months, that atmosphere of empathy would be overshadowed by a startling turn of events. A letter smuggled out of jail, beginning with the desperate plea, I need money, now triggered a chain of revelations that would eventually place Dileep in the shadow of suspicion. Penned by N S Sunil aka Pulsar Suni, the prime accused, and passed on through fellow inmates, the letter hinted at a prior connection and agreement between the two. Each new piece of evidence tightened the noose around Dileep, leading to his arrest on July 10, 2017 a development that stunned the public and shook the film fraternity. ...ever since I got involved... it feels like my life itself has come to an end, the letter further said. On June 3, the survivor issued a statement to the police, implicating Dileep for nurturing deep enmity towards her since 2012. He had been telling everyone that it was the survivor who had ruined his marriage to Manju Warrier. According to police records, Dileep told the survivor in a threatening tone that no one who stood against him in the industry had ever succeeded. As it turned out, Dileeps letter dated May 1, 2017 to the state police chief also rebounded on him. While objecting to Dileeps bail plea, the investigation team filed a report stating that his complaint to the DGP said that his friend, actor-director Nadirshah, received a phone call from a person claiming to be the friend of Suni. This was besides a letter that had been received on his drivers WhatsApp. Both the phone call and letter sought to extort money from Dileep, by threatening to implicate him in the case if he does not pony up. The investigation revealed that Suni had managed to get hold of a mobile phone and SIM card, through accused Vishnu, who was a fellow prisoner in Kakkanad district jail, which were used to make calls to Dileeps associates. It also came to light that the SIM card was stolen from Coimbatore. And, according to the confession of accused Sanal alias Mesthiri Sanal, the phone and SIM card were recovered from his house in Pathanamthitta. The probe further said the letter was originally written by accused Vipinlal in jail and handed over to Vishnu to be passed on to Dileep. The police report objecting to the bail plea of Dileep further said that when questioned in jail, Suni confessed to having entered into a criminal conspiracy with Dileep at their meeting in room 410 of Kochis Abad Plaza Hotel in March-April of 2016. They were both in the city in connection with the rehearsal for a stage show. This was confirmed using witness statements and hotel bills. The room was booked in the name of Dileep for the period from March 26 to April 7. There was a quarrel between Dileep and the victim over the latter having informed on him to Manju. This happened during the rehearsal in the presence of other members of the movie industry, the report stated. Police records stated that Suni confessed to having hatched the plot with Dileep at various shooting locations. The investigation into his statement revealed that the two had met at the Kinattingal Tennis Club in Thrissur, CIFT Junction on Willingdon Island, Ernakulam, and Thodupuzha Santhigiri College in connection with the shooting for the film Georgettans Pooram. Dileep argued that the case against him was the result of a deep-rooted conspiracy, and that it was without any basis. (to be continued) 2017 Kerala actor abduction case: No more, no less... only the truth

Political stability a dream for Koothattukulam

KOCHI: Six chairpersons in 10 years! For the Koothattukulam municipality, formed in 2015, political stability remains a dream. For years, the urban body with 14,625 voters has been craving for wider roads to end congestion. In the past two terms, independent councillors were crucial in deciding the fate of the council as frequent defections kept disrupting governance. Though the UDF grabbed power in Koothattukulam in 2015 with 13 councillors in the 25-member council, the municipality saw four chairmen during the five-year term as independents switched loyalties. The LDF gained control of the municipality in the last one-and-a-half years of the first council. The Left returned in 2020 with the support of 13 councillors, including an independent. However, CPM member Kala Raju and independent P G Sunilkumar supported UDFs no-confidence motion this August, ending LDF rule. Subsequently, Kala assumed charged as chairperson while Sunilkumar was made vice-chairman for the remaining three months. Kala had severed ties with CPM last year alleging the party did not support her when she faced financial crisis and the bank served an auction notice. On January 18, Kala was allegedly abducted in the official car of chairperson Vijaya Sivan when she arrived at the municipal office to vote for UDFs no-confidence motion, and was reportedly kept captive at the CPM area committee office till 4.30pm. Six months later on August 6, UDF moved another no-confidence motion and managed to ouster the LDF. Kala said she opted out of contesting this time as LDF had invoked the anti-defection law against her. She accused LDF of spreading fabricated stories against her at corner meetings. They have foisted cases against my son, too, she said. This year, four ex-chairpersons of the municipality are in the fray. Prince Paul John, the first chairman of the municipality, is the UDF candidate from Ward 10, while Roy Abraham, who was elected as a Congress rebel in 2015 was made chairman with LDF support, is contesting on a BJP ticket. Biju John, a Congress rebel in 2015, is the partys candidate in Ward 3. Vijaya Sivan, the chairperson from 2020 to August 2025, is CPMs pick for Ward 23. The UDF has allocated three seats to Kerala Congress (Jacob) and one to KC. Congress has fielded 22 candidates. In LDF, CPM is contesting from 18 seats, CPI six, and KC(Mani) and NCP one each. The LDF is confident of returning to power. We achieved complete housing in the municipality and ensured 24-hour medical care at Koothattukulam government hospital. In our manifesto, we have promised to raise the hospitals stature to that of a taluk hospital and construct a bypass to end congestion in Koothattukulam town, said leader of opposition in the council Sunny Kuriakose (CPM). Though UDF claims an upper hand, rebels in two wards are posing a challenge to the front. We will return to power with good majority. People are frustrated with LDF as there has not been any development in five years. Besides, there are allegations of corruption. We have fielded leaders with integrity and the response from voters is positive. Rebels do not pose a challenge, declared Prince Paul John, the parliamentary party leader of the council. The NDA, which failed to get any representation in previous councils, is contesting in 19 wardsBJP in 18 and BDJS in one. We dont want to make tall claims, but there is positive response from voters. We are urging them to give us a chance to bring the good governance of Modi regime to Koothattukulam, which has not seen development for 10 years. We are confident of winning a few seats, said BJP state committee member M D Divakaran.

Two youths held with 20 grams of suspected MDMA in Kochi

Kerala CM Pinarayi tears into UDFs unholy pact with Jamaat-e-Islami ahead of local body polls

KOCHI: With just three days left for the first phase of the local body elections , Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan launched a blistering attack on the Congress-led UDF, accusing it of striking an unholy alliance with Jamaat-e-Islamis Welfare Party of India . Speaking at a Meet-the-Press organised by the Ernakulam Press Club, the CM said the Congress was risking Keralas peace and harmony for a handful of votes. Pinarayi alleged that Jamaat-e-Islami, which he described as a group that does not recognise the Sunni and Mujahid streams followed by the majority of Keralas Muslims, is fundamentally rooted in the ideology of establishing an Islamic state as envisioned by its founder, Maududi. Just as Hindutva works towards a Hindu nation, Jamaat-e-Islami dreams of an Islamic nation. Political Islam and Hindutva are birds of the same feather, he said. He criticised the Congress for aligning with a group whose ideology, he claimed, is rejected by the vast majority of Muslim voters who traditionally back the UDF. Even many Congress supporters are opposing this tie-up, he said, adding that the Welfare Partys formation in 2011 was the culmination of Jamaat-e-Islamis political ambitions. Pinarayi also targeted the Indian Union Muslim League, saying the party leadership had ignored strong internal objections to the alliance. Despite resistance from within its own ranks, the IUML is supporting this nexus, the CM said. Calling the CPM a common foe of both majority and minority communal forces, Pinarayi accused the UDF of failing to heed warnings from within its own coalition. For a few votes, they are compromising Keralas long-standing secular fabric, he said, framing the alliance as a direct threat to the states social harmony. UDF has tie-ups with Jamaat-e-Islami, RSS and BJP, alleges CPM Ernakulam district secretary

Grinding stone in the middle of railway track in Kochi triggers panic, probe on

CM Pinarayi accuses Congress of shielding suspended MLA; flags Governors violation of SC directive

KOCHI: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday sharply criticised the Congress over its handling of allegations against suspended MLA Rahul Mankootathil, accusing the party of having shielded him for long despite being aware of his perverted behaviour. Speaking at a Meet the Press organised by the Ernakulam Press Club, the Chief Minister said the information emerging about the MLA was deeply shocking and unacceptable, and that Congress leaders must introspect instead of projecting their action as a model of political probity. Pinarayi also rejected Leader of Opposition V. D. Satheesans claim that the CPM had not acted against its own leaders in similar situations. How can they call this model action? There are Congress MLAs who have gone to jail. Were they expelled from the party? he asked. Referring to former home minister Ramesh Chennithalas remark that he would have ensured the MLAs arrest within 24 hours, Pinarayi said, Police are doing their job effectively. Some people have taken steps to protect the accused and help him evade the police. At least now, they should stop protecting him, he said. Pinarayi came down strongly on the Congress leadership, saying the nature of the allegations would shock any society. These are not things one can expect in normal life. I dont want to repeat the allegations, but the sexual perversion reported is totally unacceptable, especially from a public representative. The Congress knew about his behaviour from the beginning, yet presented him as an asset with a future. Any party with a legacy would distance itself from such people. They must think about how they allowed this. Rahul Mamkoottathil approaches Kerala HC seeking anticipatory bail in alleged rape case On the Sabarimala gold theft case, in which a CPM district committee member is currently in jail, the Chief Minister declined detailed comment, pointing out that the High Court is supervising the investigation. A comprehensive probe is underway and monitored by the High Court. The CPM has made it very clear that the party will not protect anyone if found guilty, he said. The Chief Minister strongly criticised Governor Rajendra Arlekars decision to forward alternative names to the Supreme Court for appointing Vice Chancellors to APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University and the Kerala University of Digital Sciences, Innovation and Technology, ignoring the priority list submitted by the government as mandated by the court. The Centre has taken several steps that undermine the federal structure, and governors are acting in ways that weaken it further. The Supreme Court had directed that if a panel of names comes before the Chief Minister, he must send a priority-ordered list to the Governor, and the Governor should appoint someone from that list. This is a clear directive. How can the Governor openly violate it? Pinarayi asked. He is not even considering the names in the list. This is a blatant violation. On IAS officer B. Ashok moving the court against the appointment of K. Jayakumar as Travancore Devaswom Board (TDB) president, Pinarayi said such a move by a serving bureaucrat against the government was inappropriate. The government had appointed Jayakumar, a retired civil servant, citing his proven expertise in Sabarimala-related matters. When Jayakumar was appointed, it received wide public acceptance. Ayyappa devotees welcomed it. The government believes he can make meaningful interventions at Sabarimala. There is no friction between board members and Jayakumar, all have accepted his leadership, the Chief Minister said. Woman IPS officer to lead probe in second rape case against Rahul Mamkootathil

Pinarayi Vijayan likens Jamaat-e-Islami to Hindutva groups

Kochi: Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Friday said that Jamaat-e-Islami and Hindutva organisations are birds of the same feather and accused the Congress of joining hands with the Muslim outfit for electoral gains, terming their alliance as suicidal. Speaking at the Meet the Press event in Ernakulam Press Club on Friday, the chief minister said Get the latest updates in Hyderabad City News , Technology , Entertainment , Sports , Politics and Top Stories on WhatsApp & Telegram by subscribing to our channels. You can also download our app for Android and iOS .

Rahul Mamkoottathil approaches Kerala HC seeking anticipatory bail in alleged rape case

KOCHI: Rahul Mamkoottathil, MLA, has approached the Kerala High Court seeking anticipatory bail in a case registered against him for allegedly raping a woman and forcing her to terminate her pregnancy. According to the petition, the complainant, who claimed to be separated from her husband, developed an intimate relationship with the petitioner. They regularly communicated, met on several occasions, and grew closer over time. The complainant allegedly told the petitioner that after taking a long leave from work, her company asked her to submit a written statement acknowledging her relationship with the petitioner and explaining that differences of opinion had led to her absence. Only then, she claimed, would she be allowed to rejoin. The petition further states that certain voice clips circulated on social media harmed the complainants privacy. It argues that the source of the leaked conversations and chats must be identified. This breach of privacy allegedly created mistrust and disputes between the two, despite their close relationship. The complainant reportedly feared that the petitioner might have leaked the chats. The petition also claims that political motives are influencing the case, particularly with elections approaching. It says the complainant was worried about media propaganda and felt compelled to deny the relationship to protect herself. The petitioner claims to have communication records supporting his version but says he needs time to produce them because he was being pursued by the police before he could approach the court, and the investigation continued without waiting for judicial direction. According to the petition, political influence has affected the investigation, and the complaint was submitted belatedly, directly to the Chief Minister, instead of through the proper channel. The petition states that the petitioner has not been given copies of the FIR and FIS despite applying for them. It cites the lower courts reference to the Lalita Kumari judgment, noting that in delayed complaints, the prosecution is required to conduct a preliminary inquiry. It also argues that the allegations in the FIS do not constitute rape and notes that the claim of miscarriage and forced abortion surfaced later. The petitioner alleges this was an attempt by the investigating agency to distort facts and says he has sufficient documents to establish the truth.

Local Sustainability Fest in Kochi to bring together creators, artists and ecopreneurs

The second edition of the fest will feature over 50 curated stalls from different parts of the country

Doha-Kochi Air India Express Flight Diverted To Thiruvananthapuram Amid Bad Weather

The flight safely landed at Thiruvananthapuram and later departed for Kochi once conditions improved.

KSEB issues surge alert for river banks as power production resumes at Moolamattom

KOCHI: The trial run for electricity production has successfully resumed at the Moolamattom Power House on Thursday, following the completion of critical maintenance work on the facilitys penstock. The KSEB has issued an urgent warning regarding a potential sudden and significant surge in water level in the canal stretching from Moolamattom to Malankara. The residents on both banks of the river and anyone entering the water should exercise extreme caution as there is a possibility of sudden surge in the water level, KSEB deputy chief engineer said in a statement. The Moolamattom power house, a vital component of Keralas power grid, was completely shut down on November 12, ceasing all power generation for essential repairs. The shutdown, approved by the chief minister, was deemed necessary by the electricity minister as the most suitable time with continuous rain ensuring sufficient water storage, mitigating the water shortage concerns. The minister also highlighted the increasing danger posed by a leak in the spherical valve, which was becoming uncontrollable. He said that an emergency, unscheduled shutdown later could have resulted in more serious complications. While initial permission was granted for a 30-day closure, the KSEB successfully completed the extensive repair work within the targeted 25-day period.

Keralas new local bodies face mounting waste crisis as key projects stall

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: When the new councils take charge in Keralas different local bodies later this month, most will have a common problem on their hands waste management. Kerala generates over 10,000 tonnes of solid waste every day. However, despite the state having systems in place to manage it, it still leaves a lot to be desired. Nearly 1,200 local bodies struggle manage the widening gap between waste generation and available infrastructure to handle it. Lack of land, stiff local resistance and several failed centralised waste management projects continue to hold the state back. Take for example the Rs 2,400-crore World Bank-funded project launched in 2021 to improve solid waste management in 93 urban local bodies. The initiative has come to a grinding halt due to the state governments inability to set up sanitary landfills essential for scientific waste processing. Over the past four years, the Kerala Solid Waste Management Project (KSWMP) tried establishing regional waste management facilities in Kasaragod, Palakkad, Thrissur, Kollam and Ernakulam, but failed. And, officials admit that without setting up regional sanitary landfills, the state cannot utilise the World Bank grant. Local bodies, ward members, residents and even MLAs are opposing waste management projects. Our repeated attempts to set up regional facilities, mandatory for utilising the World Bank grant, have failed. At Ambalamedu in Ernakulam, the local body refused approval to build a landfill due to strong local resistance. We had even prepared a `600-crore project benefiting around 22 surrounding local bodies, a senior government official said. The massive fire at the Brahmapuram waste plant in March 2023 that left Kochi and its suburbs choking for days, served as a turning point, pushing waste management to the top of the governments priority list. To strengthen the system, 38,312 Haritha Karma Sena members were deployed for door-to-door collection of non-biodegradable waste. Last year, they collected 1.5 lakh tonnes of such waste from households and establishments for safe disposal. Kerala generates 7,660 tonnes of biodegradable waste and 2,416 tonnes of non-biodegradable waste daily. However, despite efforts to promote decentralised processing at source, managing biodegradable waste remains a critical concern for most local bodies. Currently, many of them rely on pig farms. While source-level management systems exist in several areas, the department is adopting a hybrid strategy, introducing community-level waste treatment facilities to bridge gaps. To encourage residents to set up source-level systems, the government has announced a 5% exemption in property tax. A statewide survey is on to assess the status of source-level waste management facilities. Its findings will help identify gaps, understand operational realities and plan necessary interventions. Only households with functional waste management systems will be eligible for the exemption. Those unable or unwilling to set these up will be provided waste collection as a paid service, with user fees applicable, an official said. With only a few months left for its term to end, the Local Self-Government Department (LSGD) is gearing up to roll out a slew of initiatives aimed at achieving a garbage-free Kerala under its Malinya Muktham Nava Keralam 2.0 mission. LSGD Minister M B Rajesh told TNIE that the state has overcome the toughest phase of its waste management crisis and is now on a clear path forward. He also said Kerala will become a dumpsite-free state within the next two years. We took the Brahmapuram fire disaster as an opportunity to transform Kerala into a garbage-free state. We have achieved a lot. Now, we have a clear roadmap to move ahead sustainably. Four regional sanitary waste management facilities will become operational by April or May. Compressed biogas (CBG) plants in Palakkad are nearing completion, and work on the Kozhikode CBG plant will begin immediately, Rajesh said. Growing waste burden Kerala generates nearly four million tonnes of solid waste every year, with urban centres accounting for a major share. While biodegradable waste dominates the mix, the strain on waste management systems continues to grow. The figures below capture the scale of the challenge and the infrastructure in place to manage it

Hub of miscreants to tourist haven, Pathiramanal all set for new dawn

ALAPPUZHA: After years of neglect, the picturesque Pathiramanal Island in Vembanad Lake is receiving a new lease of life. Muhamma panchayat has launched efforts to develop the island, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, into an international tourist destination. A major obstacle to tourism development had been the absence of electricity on the isle. This has now been resolved with the installation of a solar power unit at a cost of Rs 10 lakh. According to panchayat president Swapna Shabu, the battery-operated solar power system was set up with the support of the Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research and Technology (Anert). Solar lights, toilets, waiting areas, cafeterias and other facilities were installed, making the island accessible even at night. Three security guards have been appointed round the clock for the protection of the island. Kudumbashree members run the cafeteria, Haritha Karma Sena workers handle sanitation. This is a huge relief for visitors, she said. This year, around 35,000 tourists have so far visited the island. Ticket sales have generated a revenue of Rs 2.25 lakh, with each visitor paying an entry fee of Rs 50. The State Water Transport Departments two cruise services, Vega and Sea Kuttanad, have significantly boosted tourist footfall. In addition, private boats and speedboats operate from the Kayippuram and Muhamma jetties, providing transportation to the island, Swapna added. An aerial view of Pathiramanal Island Once a haven for antisocial elements and illegal sand miners, the island is now a safe tourist spot. The island used to be a hideout for drunkards and drug users. With the deployment of security staff, the island has become safe for all visitors. The efforts of the panchayat and the tourism department have greatly improved facilities, said Shaji Arangu, a resident of Muhamma. The panchayat emphasises eco-friendly development, ensuring that every construction activity is aligned with nature. Pathiramanal Fests held in 2023 and 2024 attracted large crowds and paved the way for the islands revival. A mini park costing Rs 25 lakh, forest pathways, and other facilities have been developed, Swapna said. A survey conducted in 2014 recorded around 50 varieties of migratory birds, 91 species of local birds, and about 50 species of spiders. More than 100 varieties of plants have also been identified on the island. Victim of human excess Unregulated sand mining remains a major threat to the ecological balance of the Vembanad. Pathiramanal has shrunk from 91 hectares to just 60 hectares due to excessive sand extraction from its periphery. Plastic and waste dumped by illegal visitors have also contributed to pollution. The island was purchased by A C M Anthraper of Cherthala from the Bheemji Devaji Trust of Kochi in 1960. Following the enactment of the Land Reforms Act, the government took over the island as surplus land in 1979. At the time, around 14 families lived on the island. They were later rehabilitated to Kayippuram, in Muhamma panchayat. With several government plans to revive the island having failed over the years, the new initiative by Muhamma panchayat offers renewed hope for this ecologically fragile destination.

2017 Kerala actor abduction case: No more, no less... only the truth

KOCHI: On February 17, 2017, she was in a pleasant mood when she left her home in Patturaikkal, near Thrissur, for a film shoot in Kochi. She boarded the SUV -- arranged by the production company Lal Creations -- at 7 pm, and was headed to Panampilly Nagar, according to the first information report (FIR). In one and a half hours, her whole world was to turn upside down. It all started when a gang of reportedly three hired gangsters who had been pursuing the actor in the van bearing the name of a catering firm rammed their vehicle into the SUV around 8:30 pm near Nedumbassery airport junction to create the scene of an accident. They had tracked her based on information provided by the SUVs driver, Martin. Two of the gangsters barged into the vehicle and covered her mouth with their palms. They threatened her and grabbed the actors mobile. When the vehicle reached Palarivattom, Martin and two gang members stepped out to make way for first accused N S Sunil aka Pulsar Suni, who had initially masked his face with a towel, and two other accomplices -- who entered the vehicle en route and held down the victim. With Suni at the wheel, Martin joined the gang in their van. Having made his way to Kakkanad, Suni stopped the vehicle near an isolated bridge. He then moved to the back seat and forced the actor to sit on his lap. Despite her protestations and appeals, he overpowered and sexually assaulted her from 8:30pm to 11pm. Suni also recorded visuals of the abuse on his cell phone. Final hearing in 2017 Kerala actor abduction case on May 21 According to the FIR, Suni threatened her, saying: If you cooperate for a two-to three-minute video, I will let you go wherever you want. If not, I will take you to the DD Retreat flat where many are waiting. I cant say what they will do once they get their hands on you. The ordeal ended when she was abandoned at Padamugal, near Kakkanad, the report said. After the brutal abuse, the actor proceeded to seek shelter at the house of Lal, who runs Lal Creations and was directing the movie she was working on. She reached the nearby residence completely terrified, collapsed into Lals arms, and began sobbing uncontrollably. Though Lal and his wife tried to console her after hearing about the incident, she was shattered and spent the night there. Meanwhile, Lal called late Congress MLA P T Thomas and movie producer Anto Joseph. They became instrumental in safeguarding her and initiating immediate action. They also encouraged her to file the complaint. Soon after, police officers arrived, and an FIR was registered. On February 20, members of the film industry assembled at Durbar Hall in Kochi to declare their solidarity with the actor. Masculinity is not something that should be imposed on women, veteran actor Mammootty said, pledging his support to ensure justice for the survivor. The abduction and assault are part of a criminal conspiracy, actor Manju Warrier said, addressing the gathering. In the days that followed, the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) emerged as a powerful voice, standing firmly with the actor. Kerala HC dismisses actor Dileep's request to transfer investigation to CBI Recounting Thomas intervention, his wife and MLA Uma Thomas said, That night, PT was preparing to go to bed after a late night when the phone rang. He hurried to go out again. Normally, he kept me in the loop, but this time he didnt say anything. He returned only at dawn, looking extremely distressed. He had remained awake throughout the night and seemed troubled, as if something had happened to his own daughter. She said based on the behaviour of the driver, Thomas grew suspicious and sensed a deeper conspiracy behind the assault. Uma said Thomas, who was witness number 10, was pressured from several quarters against giving a statement. But, he remained resolute, telling those who approached him that he would speak no more, no less... only the truth, she told TNIE. (to be continued) How can accused demand CBI probe, Kerala HC asks actor Dileep

Couple nabbed for smuggling 11 exotic birds worth crores

KOCHI: A couple was nabbed for smuggling 11 exotic birds, worth crores, at Cochin International Airport, on Thursday. The suspects, from Malappuram, and their seven-year-old child were intercepted by the air intelligence unit (AIU) of customs officials. The suspects had arrived from Thailand via Kuala Lumpur, customs sources said. Based on specific intelligence, officers intercepted the suspects at the exit gate and detailed examination of their check-in baggages resulted in the recovery of 11 live birds, classified under appendix I (most endangered species) and appendix II (species with strictly regulated trade) of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). The birds were seized under mahazar, the source said. As per CITES regulations, the seized birds will be deported to Thailand, their country of origin. customs officials said the couple and the birds have been handed over to the forest department for further investigation. This year alone, three attempts to smuggle exotic species have been foiled at Kochi airport.

Malayali women's Kashmir adventure fuelled by teen love for thump

It was something they had dreamt of since they were teenagers. A dream that sprouted from a shared fascination for motorcycles, and the thump. They wanted to be riders. For Shyni C V, that passion has now become as essential as breathing. For Uma Mahesh, the enduring love has slowly turned into a realisation. And for Nishi Khan, it felt like finally coming home. The three women, all in their 40s, recently completed a Kanniyakumari-to-Kashmir ride. That teenage dream has now evolved into a lifestyle for the trio. Uma, who heads a business in Kochi, knew how to ride a motorcycle by 18. But she mustered the confidence to get one for herself only last year. When I was a young woman, people looked at me differently for riding a motorcycle, she recalls. Stare I got meant I had to stop. And I was given a gender-appropriate two-wheeler instead. But the call of the thump persisted. After years spent building a career and family, she finally decided to go full throttle. I met Shyni, who is an ace rider. She had done five all-India trips, Uma says. Nishi Khan, Shyni C V and Uma Mahesh pose in front of the CRPF camp in Jammu Nishi, too, received her licence as soon as she turned 18. But I was never able to buy a motorcycle for myself, she rues. It was during the lockdown that I rekindled my dream, thanks in part to social media reels. Soon, she bought her dream machine. She also came to know of Shyni during a Womens Day celebration. Quite poetic, isnt it? The trio soon decided to embark on an adventure: a Kanniyakumari-to-Kashmir ride with a cause Say No To Drugs. Among riders in India, Shyni is a familiar figure. Her driving school in Thiruvananthapuram trains women to ride motorcycles. And taking Nishi and Uma on their maiden long-distance ride is something she was always happy to do. The trio set off from Kanniyakumari. But as we started crossing geographies, things became difficult, recalls Uma. What kept us on the road was that thrill, that excitement of reaching a new place. They reached Delhi amid a flood. Our planned schedule drowned in the waters and we were stuck there for a week, Nishi says. Rain followed them all the way to Kashmir. There were floods. All the roads were damaged. It was pouring everywhere, says Uma. The trio at Kanniyakumari It took the trio 20 days to cover over 3,400km from Kanniyakumari to Kashmir. After spending a few days there, Uma returned to Kochi via Goa and Nishi took a detour from Chandigarh with another biker group headed to Ladakh, before returning to Thiruvananthapuram. Shyni, who accompanied Uma till Goa, headed back to Rajasthan for another impromptu all-India ride. Called the first woman Iron Butt of India, she is on her sixth cross-country trip. I reached Guwahati from Patna today. And after speaking at a school to students about the dark side of drugs and addiction, I will ride on first to the ongoing Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, and then to Arunachal Pradesh, Shyni says over phone. Inspired, Uma and Nishir are dreaming of even more journeys.

Santa Cruz Basilica: The 'Sistine Chapel' of Fort Kochi

David Lawrence does not consider himself the ideal Christian. Yet every morning, he slips quietly into the Santa Cruz Basilica in Fort Kochi his parish church and spends thirty unhurried minutes there. This is how I begin my day. This is my ritual, my anchor - and has been for many years now. It is essential. To quieten the mind, to reflect, to lift my thoughts, he says. This reverence, David adds, is stirred in part by the intricate frescoes that stretch across the churchs ceiling. They are luminous and deepen my sense of devotion. Indeed. Step into the Basilica and your gaze is immediately drawn skyward, to the long nave, where the ceiling frescoes unfold like a series of story panels, each scene guiding the eye onward, until it rests at the main altar at the far end. I have been to Rome to see the Sistine Chapel. Many famous murals adorn that chapel. Yet, I feel the ones here at Santa Cruz are no less magical, no less stirring, he adds. The altar of Santa Cruz Basilica Though unfamiliar with the finer points of the art world, Davids nod to the Sistine Chapel is fitting. The frescoes at Santa Cruz Basilica were done by an Italian Jesuit brother and painter named Antonio Moscheni, along with his disciple De Gama, says Rakhi Mariam Johnson, an architect and researcher who has done extensive studies on church architecture of Kerala. Accounts on Antonio reveal that the artist had spent his youth in Rome, studying the masterpieces in the Vatican. Apparently, it is there that he developed an interest in fresco painting. Several of his works can be found in the churches of Italys Bergamo province, and, as his talent attracted attention, in places as far as Croatia and Albania. In 1898, Antonio was assigned work in India to paint the chapel of St Aloysius College in Mangaluru, which was then recently founded by Italian Jesuits, reads a note shared by the college. Over the course of two years, Antonio covered walls, ceiling and pillars with framed, vivid tableaux on the life of St Aloysius Gonzaga, the colleges patron saint, and on the mysteries of the Christian faith. Because paints were not available locally and Europe was too far, Antonio prepared the paints using vegetable dyes, the note further reads. The frescoes that adorn the chapel of St Aloysius College in Mangaluru Though Antonio was to return to Europe after completing the college work, his fame had by then spread in India, and requests came from all quarters for similar works. The chapel of the Kankanady Hospital (Father Muller Hospital), the Mangaluru seminary, the Church of Most Holy Saviour in Bantwal (Karnataka), and the Cathedral of the Holy Name in Bombay (Mumbai) were some of the immediate beneficiaries. Then, in 1905, came the request from the then-bishop of Cochin for work on the newly constructed cathedral in Fort Kochi. Now, as equally enchanting as Antonios masterpiece in Mangaluru was the storied history of the Cochin cathedral, rendering it impossible for an artist then to overlook a chance to work here. The cathedral was built on the site where a church had stood for centuries, says Rakhi. The original church, built in 1505 during the Portuguese period, was repurposed into an arms storehouse when the Dutch had foothold in Cochin, and was later destroyed when the British took over in 1806. The frescoes that adorn the chapel of St Aloysius College in Mangaluru The present cathedrals construction, she says, began in 1887 and was completed in 1905, a period when the Neo-Gothic style was popular worldwide. The Indo-Gothic architecture twin towers, pointed arches, ribbed vaults and decorative elements must have been a departure from the Kerala-style, Baroque-influenced facades common in Kerala then, she observes. Therefore, Santa Cruz Basilica is one of the rare churches in Kerala, Rakhi adds. Add to this amalgamation the mastery of Antonios artworks, and what you have is indeed a wonder. Sadly, it is not adequately preserved, the parishioners point out. The frescoes that adorn Santa Cruz Basilica in Fort Kochi And no one feels the pain more profoundly than young Lynell de Rozario, whose brother describes her as deeply religious. I have been part of Santa Cruz Basilica my entire life. I have seen the gradual deterioration of the murals and ceiling paintings up close, says Lynell, even amidst a flurry of work tending to the upcoming consecration of a new bishop in Fort Kochi after 25 years. What used to be vibrant and full of detail is now faded, with visible moisture damage and fragile patches that can no longer be ignored. Agnes* (name changed), another parishioner, feels the same. They have done some restorations. But it has come at the cost of these works not looking like historic paintings anymore. They likely painted on top of the original, she says. Unsound and unscientific restoration work taken on the instigation of those who are clearly not experts in the field has been the bane of built heritage in Kerala, points out Biley Menon, co-convenor of the local chapter of the Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH). David concurs. Recently, he and several others had to step in to dissuade a move to redo the cathedrals altar. Finally, it was paused so as not to create needless disturbances during the tourism season. As you know, scores of tourists come to see this church, which has a huge historical and cultural significance, he says. Santa Cruz Basilica; A self-portrait of Antonio Moscheni One of the likely reasons why the frescoes here have remained largely intact for this long despite being so close to the sea and the erratic restoration attempts lies in a secret technique employed by Antonio, reveals Nilabh Sinha, the principal director of INTACH New Delhi and an expert on murals. Apparently, there are two types of fresco work: buono (true fresco) and secco. Secco is the method most commonly used in India. It involved applying dry plaster to the wall and then painting on it with pigments, says Nilabh. Antonios works were done in the true fresco or buono style. The other place you see this kind of work is the Sistine Chapel. Here, the artist prepares a lime-based plaster and paints on it while its still wet. The pigment fuses into the plaster as it dries, forming a permanent bond. Over time, carbonation occurs, creating a protective film over the painting, Nilabh says. This, he adds, ensures the painting remains intact unless the plaster or wall itself is damaged. Antonios work in Mangalurus St Aloysius College was done in the buono method, and given that the Kochi cathedral was also done by him, it is safe to assume that it is a similar method. However, to be sure and a conservation treatment to be designed, a technical study has to be made, Nilabh concludes. The silhouette of Santa Cruz Basilica This is also what a section of the parishioners suggests: regular checks and a complete scientific study. After all, these are not just paintings. They are part of Kochis heritage and cultural landscape, points out a church member. A careful, well-guided restoration, he insists, is essential. Antonio was a man of God. His paintings not only draw the admiration of all who see them, but also raise their hearts and minds to God, says an official of the chapel at St Aloysius College. For Antonio, who now rests in an unmarked grave somewhere in Kochi (sadly, he died four days before the consecration of the church in 1905), what better tribute than to see his final work restored to their due glory. Perhaps when Monsignor Antony Kattiparambil takes charge as the 36th bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cochin on December 7, could his first set of orders also include this?

An evening for voices and stories of women, children in Kochi

KOCHI is set to host an evening of poetry, short film screenings, exhibitions, and conversation, all centred on womens voices, perspectives, and creativity. The event is organised by Thambu Womens Theatre Collective, a Dalit women-led group founded in 2020 by theatre artist Athira Nikathil. The collective took shape during the lockdown, when three other membersAhalya Praveen, Krishnapriya Thilakan, and Neethu Chandranjoined Athira, and they staged a play together. The experience made them realise the need for a space where their stories and struggles could be expressed on their own terms. Much of Thambus work centers around women and children in suburban and rural areas, whom they engage with through plays, community events, and workshops. With Immini Neram Thambadikkam, Thambu (which means tent) aims to bring an array of interesting events for the audience, with its evening of carefully curated short films being one of the highlights. Seven films by women directors will be screened. Two of them are made by 14-year-olds. Among the selections is Safe Dose by Chinese filmmaker Faye Shu, a 14-minute short that has travelled to international festivals, including the Seoul International Womens Film Festival. The film, said to be a mirror reflecting everyones assumptions, examines perception, judgment, and the silent expectations that shape human behaviour. Half of Everything by Lekshmi Mohan explores the concept of memory loss with tenderness. The film invites viewers into the intimate world of a person becoming the keeper of moments that slowly fade, capturing the courage that accompanies grief and remembrance. One of the most exciting films comes from 14-year-old Hrithika Sreenijin, The Weight We Carry , a powerful debut that delves into the pressures of gender expectations and the sanctuaries that children create for themselves. Also in the line-up is Between Words and Silence by Aiswarya Pullat, which offers a subtle examination of the emotional terrains women navigate daily. The film encourages viewers to pause and consider the weight of what is often left unspoken. The other three short films that will be screened are Poovu , directed by Sneha; At Home ( Veettil ) by Niwee Kathani; and Fault Lines , directed by another 14-year-old, Ameya Millu. For Athira, the event is not merely a showcase but a gathering. It will be a space where people can meet, share, discuss, and connect, she says. Alongside the film screenings, a poetry reading session titled Where life turns into lines will be held by poet Shilpa Chandran, aka Kisa. The event will also feature a small section where sustainable, handcrafted products created by women will be available for sale. Beginning at 3 pm on December 7 at Thudippu Dance Foundation in Vennala, Immini Neram Thambadikkam promises to be an intimate and thoughtful evening. We wish to amplify womens narratives and create visibility for marginalised voices. Anyone can attend the event, regardless of their gender, says Athira. For details: 7594987 928

IndiGo to introduce wide-body aircraft on Vijayawada-Hyderabad route: MP

The IndiGo official assures that direct services from Vijayawada to Varanasi, Ahmedabad, Pune, Kochi and Goa will be introduced after completing route mapping

Flower-shaped dumplings steal the show at Thai Soul, Grand Hyatt Kochi Bolgatty

Chennai Airport continues to suffer fresh wave of disruptions

CHENNAI: Chennai International Airport suffered a fresh wave of disruption on Thursday, with dozens of flights delayed or cancelled through the early hours, as operational difficulties continued to ripple through. Between midnight and 9am on December 4, at least 13 arriving flights and 11 departures recorded delays ranging from 18 minutes to more than three hours, according to internal airport movement logs. Indigo, which operates the largest number of domestic flights, faced the bulk of the disruption, with several of its Airbus A320 and A321 services significantly behind schedule. Inbound traffic was hit hardest in the early hours. Flights from Kolkata, Kochi and Patna saw delays of more than two hours, with one service from Hyderabad (6E6007) arriving nearly four hours late. International services from Singapore, Doha, Dubai and Kuwait also landed behind schedule, with delay durations spanning 30 minutes to close to two hours. Departures were similarly affected. Indigo's early-morning Delhi service (6E0456) pushed back more than three hours late, while departures to Kolkata and Port Blair saw delays of over two hours. Kuwait Airways and Jazeera Airways services experienced moderate delays, indicating that the operational disruption extended across both domestic and international carriers. The morning irregularities escalated into a wider schedule breakdown, prompting a wave of cancellations across the day. At least 26 departuresmostly operated by Indigowere cancelled for operational reasons, affecting services to key metros including Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Pune and Hyderabad, as well as regional centres such as Coimbatore, Guwahati, and Visakhapatnam. Some international short-haul routes, including those to Colombo and the Andaman Islands' Veer Savarkar Airport, were also withdrawn from the day's roster. Arrivals were similarly thinned out, with at least five inbound flights scrapped, including services from Indore, Mumbai, Kochi, Jaipur and Ahmedabad. 'Could not live up to promise,' says IndiGo CEO amid hundreds of flight cancellations, delays

Top Kerala cardiologist takes on 'heart attack' with his pen

Heart attack deaths among people under 30 have risen by 40% between 2018 and 2022, increasing from 2,371 to 3,329. For those over 30, the numbers climbed from 23,392 to 29,081 in the same period. Figures like these naturally compel us to fear heart attacks. But do we really need to live in fear? Is it possible to live without constantly worrying about one? Yes, says Dr George Thayil, founding head of the cardiology department at Lourdes Hospital in Kochi. He explains how in his book 'Heart Attack: Bhayappedathe Jeevikkam', which was recently released by DC Books. For Dr Thayil, writing about the heart never grows old. He has published more than half a dozen informative books in the field of health. In Heart Attack, he offers insights into how individuals can protect their hearts. He points out how hospitals and the wider health sector rarely emphasise preventive measures. They are all into treatment protocols once the disease gets diagnosed, says Dr Thayil. He notes that treatment costs are often so high that they can break a familys financial backbone. Even though the World Heart Federation, Unesco, and the World Health Organization consistently stress the importance of focusing on prevention rather than cure in heart disease, hospitals seldom adhere to this principle. Many patients and their families are unable to meet the exorbitant expenses of the cardiac examinations and treatments. An angioplasty, for instance, costs between Rs 1.5 and Rs 3 lakh, and a bypass surgery between Rs 3 and Rs 5 lakh, says Dr Thayil. This prompted him to write a book that shares essential knowledge on how to maintain heart health. The book explores a wide range of subjects related to the heart and heart disease in an engaging manner. Each chapter is framed as a question dedicated to doubts every individual has likely had at some point. Questions such as: What is the structure and function of the heart? What causes chest pain? Is an ECG an effective tool for diagnosing heart disease? Is it true that one must start protecting the heart from a young age? In one chapter, Dr Thayil highlights how deaths due to overworking known as Karoshi syndrome are becoming a major concern. Karoshi is a Japanese term for fatalities or disability caused by overwork. It is primarily linked to cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events such as stroke and heart attack, triggered by extreme stress and long working hours. The syndrome, Dr Thayil notes, arises from a mix of prolonged work hours, job-related stress, poor worklife balance, and societal pressures. It has become a global concern, prompting governments to introduce preventive measures. Among people exhibiting Karoshi syndrome, the risk of heart attack rises by 13 per cent, while susceptibility to stroke increases by 33 per cent. Kochi Mayor M Anilkumar released the book on World Heart Day by handing over a copy to actor Ramesh Pisharody

Kochi Muziris Biennale: where a city turns into a canvas

As the sixth edition of the KMB rolls up, discussions in favour of it or against it roil around the event; work seems to be on schedule, with the production team working in tandem with the curatorial team and preparing the 22 venues, which will showcase the works of 66 artists from India and abroad

Nearly 40 Indigo flights to and from Kochi airport delayed or cancelled

Kochi airport issues travel advisory without naming any particular airline advising passengers to verify the latest flight information with their respective airline