Nivin Pauly accused in rape case: All you need to know — reactions, counter-allegations, conspiracy theories
Malayalam actor-producer Nivin Pauly has been named in a rape case, adding his name to the growing list of industry figures facing allegations in the wake of the Hema Committee report.
Updated : September 04, 2024 12:27 PM ISTMalayalam actor-producer Nivin Pauly has been named in a rape case, adding his name to the growing list of industry figures facing allegations in the wake of the Hema Committee report.
Nivin Pauly
Actor-producer Nivin Pauly has been named in a rape case amid the ongoing wave of allegations in Kerala, following the release of the Hema Committee report. His involvement has sent shockwaves through the industry.
Details of the case
Nivin Pauly has been named the sixth accused in a case filed under Section 376 (rape) of the Indian Penal Code at the Oonnukal police station. The complainant alleges that she was taken to Dubai under the pretext of auditioning for a film and was sexually assaulted in a hotel room.
Nivin Pauly's response
In response to the allegations, Nivin Pauly held a press conference where he appeared calm and confident, vehemently denying the accusations.
"It's a baseless allegation, and it's the first time I am facing such a situation. When I see false news regarding that, it affects me and my family. I haven't done anything wrong and that's the reason I immediately decided to meet the media. I have no proof at the moment, but I am determined to prove them wrong. Such fake allegations can be made against anyone. If everyone keeps quiet it will get only worse. I am here talking for everyone. It will take time, but I am ready to cooperate with any investigation to disprove these allegations," he said.
Nivin Pauly previously accused of similar allegations
— Nivin Pauly (@NivinOfficial) September 3, 2024
This is not the first time Nivin Pauly has faced such accusations. About a month ago, the same woman lodged a complaint against him at the Oonnukal police station. The complaint was not initially taken seriously, as the police officer deemed it lacking in merit and advised Nivin to disregard it.
Nivin claimed, "The Circle Inspector, I don't recall his name, told me that a woman has made such allegations against me. I told him that I had never met her and denied all the allegations made by her against me. The cop concluded that there was no merit in this case, and it was fake. He closed it." He further added that he had considered filing a counter-complaint but was advised against it.
"I asked him if I could file a counter-complaint against her. But, he advised me that it was not required as some people try to do such things for quick fame, and we don't have to play into their hands. I also sought advice from my lawyers, they also advised the same. I read a few Facebook posts of the girl in question and I felt she has a history of saying baseless things, so I let it slide," he added.
The audition that never happened
The complainant claimed that she was enticed by the promise of an audition for a new Nivin Pauly movie. However, Nivin clarified that his team only conducted an online casting call, and no in-person auditions were held. He speculated that the allegations might have stemmed from someone disappointed by not being shortlisted.
"We have given a casting call and received many enquiries for that. When I asked the concerned team, I was informed that none were called for auditions as they were shortlisting those who they liked from the entries," Nivin explained, expressing his belief that there could be a conspiracy behind the allegations.
Impact of the Hema Committee Report
The situation has changed dramatically in Kerala following the release of the Hema Committee report, which exposed widespread sexual exploitation and abuse of power in the Malayalam film industry. The report has led to the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) by the Kerala government, which is now actively investigating such cases.
As a result, the Oonnukal police station, which previously dismissed the complaint, is now compelled to take action. Nivin Pauly is among several high-profile members of the industry, including Mukesh, Siddique, Jayasurya, and Ranjith, who have recently faced similar allegations.