How a sexual assault case unmasked the Malayalam film industry

On the night of February 17, 2017, a top female actor in Kerala was kidnapped and sexually assaulted by six hired criminals. Dileep, a superstar actor in Kerala, is alleged to have masterminded the night. The crime initiated in Kerala a Weinstein-scale movement that predated the global #MeToo movement.

In our 11-chapter saga, The News Minute looks at how one night pushed Kerala to the edge, almost to the cusp of a much needed change. Yet, the women did not get the coverage that their counterparts in the West got. Even in India, those outside Kerala knew little about the extent of the rot.

In this conversation, Dhanya Rajendran and Nidhi Suresh talk about what exactly happened, why the case did not get the coverage it deserved, and the process of reporting on this case.

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[mnm]

Heartbreaking. Men AND women should stand up together against these injustices. This is a collective problem and NOT just a woman issue. This is OUR problem. Thank you for covering this. Please stay safe and keep up the good work.

[kumarsajilesh]

Dileep made a big black mark and we bow our head in front of other industries. Legendary actors like Sathyan, Thukkurissi, Jayan, Soman, Mohanlal, Mammootty made our industry into another level of optimism of proud but Dileep destroyed all. Still his fans are justifying him....

[rohanxdavis]

I remember hearing about this when it happened. Our family used to watch classic malayalam movies which starred Dileep all the time like CID moosa, we've not put on any of his work ever since. What a disgusting act. More of this misogyny needs to be brought to light, it must be purged from our society. Malayalee actresses also deserve the spotlight no matter the skin colour or caste, it's weird that most of our "superstars" are men from privileged backgrounds. Incidents like this just highlight the need for hard and honest conversations about the state of our society.

[mahesh_new_zealand]

So good to see Nidhi Suresh again and what a horrific report!

[sylviapinto]

Such an amazing discussion, refreshingly calm. You have brought back the days of proper detailed reporting, can't express enough gratitude to your lot. THANK YOU❤,

It is so distinguished and unlike the kinds of mainstream, so much of drama and hysteria, who push their thinking and viewpoint into the minds of their viewers.

[komalamgeorge]

I'm glad we are talking about this horrendous crime & the survivor is not forgotten. It's terrible that the 'Dileep set' misbehaved with Nidhi, just shows their brazenness & power they seem to have

[rajangeorge]

Hats off to the actress to have the guts not to back off and thanks Nidhi

[PSD]

Dileep is done and dusted. As a child I used to like his movies, I hate him now with a passion.

[rahulchandra]

So happy you guys are talking about this more and more so people dont forget abt this incident and heinous acts committed by Dileep /Gopalakrishnan

[TheGoddon]

Guys, I recommend you put time stamps. That way viewers will jump to the subject they are most interested in. Your CTR will improve trust me.

[HighwayContracting]

Still justice is denied ma'am. 😮 We hope the actress will get justice 1 day when all the truth comes out. 🙏

[tvssai]

I was not aware of the story, till i ready Nidhi's report. what a shame but reality. so, you do not have to feel offended if people are not aware of thi story in general. great great work indeed. am sure it will win some head turning awards globally and then everyone will be speaking about Nidhi, TNM and the incident. Optimist.

[DMMediaAndTech]

I believe In watched this video before, did you guys reupload this?

[ShaileshSharma]

Cannot expect more from South industry. Look at their movies; they mirror their society. Misogynist, jingoism, and over-the-top.

[srjshapthnktl]

Somehow it makes sense in my gut about the witchcraft being a integral part of the dark aspects plaguing Malayalam movie industry. This will be a pattern in every industry perhaps and even in politicians

[shirshenduroy]

So good to have Nidhi Back again! Although with a horrible story

[Ahmad-dggt]

I just come here to see Nidhi imhas breathtaking beauty❤❤❤

[TrueGodsOwnCountry]

Maybe it’s also time to bring up the fact that this leading Malayalam actor has groomed two young actresses when it’s a clearly a pattern.

It’s sad that the person getting groomed never realizes this! :(

[majok]

Sad part was spineless mallu actors still supporting him to promote their own kids and other vested interest

[germanevision]

Taking a position on any issue comes with a cost. People don't take a position if they are not ready to pay the price.