Convicted in 2017 Actress Assault Case Moves Kerala HC Against Verdict

Kochi — A man convicted in the 2017 actress sexual assault case has moved the Kerala High Court, challenging the trial court verdict by arguing that it failed to properly weigh evidence of his non-involvement.

Martin, identified as the second accused in the case, has sought setting aside of his conviction and sentence, contending that key prosecution witnesses did not establish any association, prior contact, or conspiracy with the other accused. He pointed out that the trial court itself recorded findings that the prosecution had failed to prove the alleged conspiracy.

The appeal notes that the victim stated another person took her out of the vehicle, and the trial court later observed there was no proof of a criminal conspiracy. Despite this, Martin was convicted, while another accused facing similar conspiracy allegations was acquitted. He contends that both accused were similarly placed and should have been treated equally in evaluating the evidence. He also said there were no allegations of sexual assault or his presence at the scene, and his role was limited to an alleged conspiracy that was not supported by evidence. He asserted that relevant witness evidence had been placed before the trial court through written submissions, but the court failed to properly discuss or appreciate it.

Weeks after Malayalam cinema actor Dileep was acquitted in the sensational case and six others were convicted, the convict has moved to challenge his own verdict, highlighting perceived inconsistencies and urging a thorough re-examination by the High Court. The case remains a high-profile legal battle with implications for due-process and how conspiratorial claims are weighed in court.

Observers say the High Court’s ruling could influence the long-running saga surrounding the scandal in Malayalam cinema and upend how similar appeals are treated in post-conviction reviews.

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