'Not every citizen in this country is treated equally before the law'; survivor slams verdict

KOCHI: The survivor actress has said that she has come to realise that all citizens are not equal before the law. This is her first reaction after the verdict in the case in which she was assaulted in a moving vehicle and the visuals were recorded. In an Instagram post, she openly criticised the way the case was handled, stating that even the prosecution realised there was a change in the approach only when the case reached one of the accused.

Her reaction comes as the state government is preparing to file an appeal in the High Court.

'Eight years, nine months, and 23 days since the incident have been a painful journey. I had to write to the President, the Prime Minister, and the Chief Justice of India explaining my fears and experiences. My requests to transfer the case from this court were mercilessly rejected.

The first accused was not my driver or employee. I had only seen him once or twice during the production of a movie I worked in 2016,” she said. This clarification was made in response to the verdict mentioning actor Dileep’s claim that the survivor and the accused had prior acquaintance. She also said she is deeply grateful to all those who stood by her with humanity.

Allegations raised by the survivor

1. Her rights were not protected.
2. The memory card was illegally accessed three times while in court custody.
3. Her demand for a comprehensive investigation was not accepted.
4. The investigation report was submitted only after the High Court directed it.
5. Two public prosecutors resigned, alleging hostile behaviour by the judge, and personally told her that justice could not be expected.
6. Her request for an open trial was rejected.
7. In her petition seeking a change of judge, the defence opposed the move and joined as a party against it.

'After years of pain, tears, and emotional struggle, I have come to a painful realisation: 'NOT EVERY CITIZEN IN THIS COUNTRY IS TREATED EQUALLY BEFORE THE LAW'. At the end of the day, this verdict made me realise how strongly human judgment can shape decisions. I also know that every court does not function in the same way! My heartfelt thanks to everyone who stood by me throughout this long journey! To those who continue to attack me with abusive comments and paid narratives, you are free to continue doing what you are paid to do!' the survivor wrote.

Actor Manju Warrier also responded, saying, “It cannot be said that justice has been fully delivered. The frightening reality is that the masterminds are still free and moving around in broad daylight. They too must be punished. This is for every girl, every woman, and every human being. Then, now, and always- with her.”