Case Registered Against Second Accused For Allegedly Revealing Survivor’s Identity Online

Thrissur Cyber Police registered a fresh case against Martin Antony, the second accused in the 2017 Kerala actress assault case, for allegedly defaming the survivor through social media platforms. Antony, sentenced to 20 years of rigorous imprisonment for his direct role in the crime, faces charges related to disclosing the survivor's identity and orchestrating a cyberattack. The complaint, lodged by the survivor with the Thrissur Range DIG, highlighted a video purportedly shared by Antony that revealed her identity. She submitted 16 links circulating the content and demanded immediate removal, describing the incident as a serious violation of her privacy. Police swiftly responded by issuing notices to YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram for takedown of the offending material. Authorities emphasized strict action against privacy breaches in high-profile cases involving sexual assault survivors.

The probe extends to 27 individuals who allegedly shared the video, with notices directing them to delete the content immediately. City Police Commissioner Nakul R. Deshmukh stated that more cases will be filed in coming days as investigations uncover additional violators. A special team has been formed to examine whether the video's release under Antony's name indicates a coordinated defamation campaign. Investigators have collected data from 127 social media accounts linked to the circulation. Deshmukh reiterated the legal obligation to remove defamatory posts promptly, warning of consequences for non-compliance. This development revives scrutiny on online harassment faced by survivors in sensitive cases.

The 2017 assault involved the abduction and sexual assault of a prominent actress while traveling in a vehicle, with Antony identified as the driver. A Kochi court convicted six accused, including Antony, imposing 20-year sentences, while acquitting four others, notably actor Dileep. Dileep remains embroiled in related legal battles, including contempt proceedings.

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Separately, the Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court is scheduled to hear six contempt petitions connected to the case on December 18. These include complaints against former DGP R. Sreelekha for allegedly favoring Dileep in media appearances and criticizing the investigation. Another petition from Dileep targets media outlets for purportedly violating trial reporting norms. The hearings underscore ongoing tensions over public discourse surrounding the protracted litigation.

Authorities' proactive measures signal zero tolerance for secondary victimization through digital means, especially against protected identities in sexual offense cases. The survivor's swift complaint enabled rapid intervention, preventing wider dissemination.

This incident highlights persistent challenges in safeguarding survivor privacy amid social media's reach, prompting calls for stronger enforcement of disclosure prohibitions. Police continue technical analysis to trace origins and motives behind the video. As the investigation progresses, focus remains on accountability for all involved in the alleged defamation network. The case reinforces legal protections while addressing evolving cyber threats to victims' dignity. Stakeholders await court outcomes on contempt matters alongside police findings on the fresh charges.

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