Kochi Police File Sexual Harassment Case Against Director Chidambaram S Poduval
In a significant development, the Ernakulam South Police in Kochi have officially registered a case against Chidambaram S Poduval, the acclaimed director behind the blockbuster film Manjummel Boys. The case stems from a sexual harassment complaint filed by a woman, with police confirming the registration on Monday.
Details of the Complaint and Legal Action
According to police officials, the complaint was lodged on Sunday, following allegations that an incident occurred in 2022. The woman has accused Poduval of trespassing into her apartment located in the Elamkulam area of Kochi and sexually misbehaving with her. The case has been formally booked under specific sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, reflecting the seriousness of the allegations.
The charges include:
- Section 74: Assault or criminal force to a woman with intent to outrage her modesty.
- Section 75: Sexual harassment, as defined under the new legal framework.
Police have stated that the complainant's statement was meticulously recorded before the First Information Report (FIR) was registered. As part of the ongoing investigation, a notice will be issued to Chidambaram S Poduval, directing him to appear for questioning. At this time, the filmmaker has not publicly responded to the allegations.
Background on Chidambaram S Poduval
Chidambaram S Poduval is a prominent figure in the Malayalam film industry, known for his directorial successes. He gained widespread recognition with his debut film Jan.E.Man in 2021, which was praised for its storytelling and emotional depth. His recent work, Manjummel Boys, released in 2024, has been a major hit, further cementing his reputation as a talented director. The case against him has sparked discussions in both legal and entertainment circles, given his high-profile status.
The investigation is currently in its early stages, with police emphasizing that all procedures are being followed as per the law. Authorities have assured that they will conduct a thorough inquiry to ascertain the facts and ensure justice. This development highlights ongoing concerns about sexual harassment and the importance of legal recourse in such matters, particularly involving public figures.
