Shocking Suicide Attempt Days Before Crucial Verdict
In a dramatic turn of events, B Manikandan, the third accused in the high-profile Kochi actor rape case, attempted to end his life late on Friday night. This desperate act comes just days before the trial court is scheduled to pronounce its verdict in the sensational case on December 8.
The Friday Night Incident
According to Palarivattom police officials, Manikandan had been taken into custody earlier on Friday for creating a public nuisance while under the influence of alcohol. The police confirmed that the accused has a history of alcohol-related issues and frequently caused disturbances when drunk.
After being released from police custody close to midnight, Manikandan walked to a nearby shop where he purchased a razor blade. Witnesses reported that he then proceeded to cut his wrist in an apparent suicide attempt. Prompt intervention by passersby and police personnel prevented a tragic outcome.
Medical Treatment and Recovery
The accused was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for emergency medical treatment. Medical examinations revealed that the injuries were minor and did not require any sutures. After receiving first aid at the hospital, Manikandan was discharged the same night.
Police authorities have confirmed that the wounds were superficial and the accused is currently out of immediate danger. However, the incident has raised concerns about the mental state of the accused as the verdict date approaches.
Background of the Actor Rape Case
The case dates back to February 17, 2017, when the survivor, a popular actress, was traveling from Thrissur to Ernakulam. According to the prosecution's case, the accused persons orchestrated a fake accident scenario to stop her vehicle, following which she was kidnapped and subjected to sexual assault in a moving vehicle.
In a particularly disturbing aspect of the case, the first accused, Sunil N S alias Pulsar Suni, allegedly recorded the entire incident using his mobile phone. The prosecution has further claimed that popular actor Dileep conspired with Suni to capture explicit images of the survivor, and the entire criminal act was executed as part of this conspiracy.
The Upcoming Verdict and Accused Persons
Apart from Manikandan, ten other individuals have been named as accused in this high-profile case that has captured national attention for years. The case has been closely followed by media and public alike, given the involvement of prominent figures from the Malayalam film industry.
District and sessions Judge Honey M Varghese has officially scheduled the case for judgment delivery on December 8, marking a crucial milestone in the lengthy legal proceedings that have spanned several years.
The suicide attempt has added another layer of complexity to an already sensational case that has exposed the dark underbelly of the entertainment industry and raised important questions about celebrity culture and justice delivery in high-profile cases.
