
Fri Feb 06 07:08:27 UTC 2026: ### Veteran Malayalam Actor Maniyanpillai Raju Arrested, Released on Bail in Hit-and-Run Case
The Story:
Malayalam film actor Maniyanpillai Raju was arrested by Thiruvananthapuram City police on Friday, February 6, 2026, in connection with a hit-and-run incident. The incident occurred late on Thursday night when his car allegedly struck a motorcycle carrying two youths near the Trivandrum Club in Vazhuthacaud. The actor was later released on station bail after a medical examination. The injured youths, identified as Sooraj, 20, and Nivedith Krishna, 20, sustained serious injuries and were admitted to private hospitals for emergency surgeries.
Key Points:
- The accident occurred around 10 p.m. on Thursday, February 5, 2026, near the Trivandrum Club in Vazhuthacaud.
- Maniyanpillai Raju was arrested on February 6, 2026, and charged under Sections 281 and 125(a) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, and Sections 134(A) and 134(B) of the Motor Vehicles Act.
- CCTV footage reportedly shows the actor’s car cutting across the road and hitting the motorcycle without stopping.
- The injured youths, Sooraj and Nivedith Krishna, sustained serious leg and spinal injuries.
- The actor claimed he “panicked” after the incident, informed a friend, and stated he hadn’t consumed alcohol, also citing his cancer diagnosis.
- The car was found near the Trivandrum Tennis Club, and is registered under the name of Sudheer Kumar Raju.
- The District Police Chief has ordered a probe into alleged lapses by the local police unit regarding potential preferential treatment towards the actor.
Key Takeaways:
- The hit-and-run incident involving a well-known actor has sparked public concern and scrutiny, particularly regarding road safety and accountability.
- The police response, including the initial handling of the case and allegations of preferential treatment, is under investigation, potentially impacting public trust in law enforcement.
- The incident highlights the ongoing issues of rash driving and failure to provide assistance to accident victims, prompting discussions about stricter enforcement and public awareness campaigns.
Impact Analysis:
The hit-and-run case involving Maniyanpillai Raju has several potential long-term implications:
- Legal Ramifications: The actor faces potential legal consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and suspension of his driver’s license, depending on the outcome of the investigation and trial.
- Public Image: The incident could significantly damage Maniyanpillai Raju’s reputation and public image, impacting his future career prospects in the Malayalam film industry.
- Policy Changes: The case may prompt a review of existing traffic laws and enforcement mechanisms, potentially leading to stricter penalties for traffic violations and hit-and-run incidents.
- Public Awareness: The incident may raise public awareness about road safety and the importance of providing assistance to accident victims, encouraging responsible driving behavior and promoting a culture of empathy and accountability.
- Police Accountability: The investigation into alleged lapses by the local police unit could lead to reforms in police procedures and training, ensuring fair and impartial treatment of all individuals, regardless of their social status or celebrity.