Fresh questions have emerged in the sexual harassment case against Ranjith Balakrishnan after an advocate who was part of the film’s Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) appeared for the filmmaker in court, raising concerns over a possible conflict of interest. According to a report by Reporter TV, advocate Mohammad Siyad, who was reportedly serving as the external member of the ICC constituted for Ranjith’s ongoing project, appeared for the defence shortly after the filmmaker’s arrest. The move has drawn scrutiny, as ICC members are expected to function as independent authorities in addressing workplace harassment complaints.
Amid the controversy, Mohammad has claimed that he resigned from the ICC by submitting a resignation letter to the film’s producers immediately after Ranjith’s arrest on Tuesday night. His assertion has, however, raised further questions, particularly over the timing and manner of the resignation. Sources said the ICC had been constituted on December 15, 2025, with six members. The panel includes presiding officer Priya Krishnan, assistant director Shalini Nair, hairstylist Aleena, production controller Prashanth Narayanan and associate director Bose, along with Mohammad as the external member. It remains unclear whether due process was followed in his appointment and subsequent exit.
Adding to the confusion, it has emerged that the phone number listed as Mohammad’s in the ICC records actually belongs to another woman advocate. When contacted, she reportedly said she had no knowledge of the film or the ICC, casting further doubt on the committee’s constitution and documentation. Mohammad has also reportedly stated that he shares a personal relationship with Ranjith, describing him as a family friend, and maintained that no complaint had been filed before the ICC in connection with the allegations.
Ranjith, meanwhile, has been remanded to 14 days in judicial custody and lodged in the Ernakulam sub jail after completing medical formalities. He was earlier admitted to Ernakulam General Hospital citing health concerns, before being produced before a magistrate in Thrippunithura. Briefly responding to reporters, he denied the allegations, saying the case would be proven false. His bail application is expected to be considered by the court. The filmmaker was taken into custody on Tuesday night from near Muttam in Idukki district and later handed over to Kochi City Police, where his arrest was formally recorded at the North Women’s Police Station.
The case is based on a complaint by a woman actor currently working in his upcoming film, who alleged that Ranjith entered her caravan without permission at a shooting location in January and attempted to sexually assault her. Police said her confidential statement was recorded earlier this week, following which the arrest was carried out. A case has been registered under multiple provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, including charges related to sexual assault, outraging the modesty of a woman, wrongful confinement and making obscene gestures. The investigation is being led by Ernakulam City Deputy Commissioner of Police Aswathy Jiji.
