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WCC Sets Candlelight Vigils Across Kerala for 2017 Assault Survivor

The gatherings seek to sustain pressure for safer film workplaces after a December 2025 verdict that convicted six accused, with Dileep acquitted.

Overview

  • Vigils are scheduled today, February 17, at 6 pm in Kozhikode (Mananchira Open Stage), Kochi (Abdul Kalam Marg on Marine Drive), and Thiruvananthapuram (Manaveeyam Veethi).
  • WCC describes the day as a turning point that inspired the Avalkoppam movement and pushed conversations on accountability in Malayalam cinema.
  • The case stems from the February 17, 2017 abduction and sexual assault inside a moving vehicle near Athani in Angamaly, reported to police the following day.
  • Six accused, including Sunil Kumar (Pulsar Suni) and driver Martin Antony, were sentenced to 20 years in December 2025, while four, including actor Dileep, were acquitted.
  • Selecting the exact anniversary has drawn concern online about retraumatisation, with influencer Carl Lafrenais urging sensitivity to dates that still carry pain.