Tue Sep 24 20:05:46 UTC 2024: ## Kerala Police Weigh Options After High Court Rejects Actor Siddique’s Bail Plea

**Thiruvananthapuram, September 24, 2024:** The Kerala Crime Branch is considering its next steps after the High Court rejected actor Siddique’s anticipatory bail plea in connection with an alleged 2016 rape case. While the police have not yet issued a wanted-person notice or restricted Mr. Siddique’s movements, a top-level meeting was held on Tuesday to discuss the case.

The meeting, chaired by Additional Director General of Police, Crime Branch, H. Venkatesh, reportedly considered issuing a notice to Mr. Siddique to appear before investigators. The agency is also examining the possibility of immediate arrest, though concerns remain about potential accusations of overzealousness if Mr. Siddique then seeks bail from the Supreme Court.

The High Court’s observation that Mr. Siddique’s custodial interrogation is essential for the investigation has limited the police’s legal options. The court also raised concerns that Mr. Siddique might attempt to influence key witnesses. The court’s decision came after the Kerala government faced criticism for its silence on the 2019 K. Hema Committee report, which documented widespread sexual exploitation in the Malayalam film industry.

Despite the pressure, the police maintain they have conducted a professional and unbiased investigation. They have gathered evidence including hotel records, witness statements, and medical reports to support their case. The Crime Branch is confident they have sufficient grounds to legally confront Mr. Siddique.

Meanwhile, police and media presence has been noted at Mr. Siddique’s residences and at a hotel in Nedumbassery, although his whereabouts remain unconfirmed. The situation is evolving rapidly, and further developments are expected in the coming days.

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