The search for veteran Malayalam actor Sidhique, accused in a rape and criminal intimidation case, has intensified after the Kerala High Court denied his anticipatory bail plea. Sidhique’s whereabouts remain unknown, prompting the police to publish a lookout notice in newspapers seeking public assistance in locating him.
The notice, which includes a photograph and physical description of the 65-year-old actor—5.7 feet tall and well-built—calls on anyone with information to contact the Thiruvananthapuram Police Commissioner or Deputy Inspector General of Police. The Assistant Commissioner of Police, Narcotics cell, or the Museum Police Station can also be reached for tips.
Sidhique has since approached the Supreme Court in an attempt to secure anticipatory bail after the High Court refused his request on September 24. The court cited the seriousness of the allegations and deemed custodial interrogation necessary for a proper investigation. The court also highlighted the need for a potency test, adding that Sidhique’s complete denial of the accusations, along with the risk of witness intimidation and evidence tampering, made him ineligible for relief.
The actor was charged under Sections 376 (rape) and 506 (criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code. Sidhique claims that the female complainant, also an actor, has been harassing him with false accusations since 2019. He argues that she has repeatedly made unsubstantiated allegations, including claims of inappropriate behavior and verbal sexual offers dating back to 2016.
In light of the accusations, Sidhique resigned from his post as general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA). His case is one among several recent sexual harassment allegations in the Malayalam film industry, which came to the forefront after revelations in the Justice K. Hema Committee report. This report, commissioned after the 2017 actress assault case, detailed widespread harassment and exploitation of women in the industry.
In response, the Kerala government announced the formation of a seven-member special investigation team on August 25 to probe the multiple complaints lodged against high-profile Malayalam actors and directors.