POCSO case; Actor Koottickal Jayachandran absconding, phone remains switched off

KOZHIKODE: Kasaba police have reported that actor Koottickal Jayachandran is currently absconding following the registration of POCSO case against him. The case stems from allegations that Jayachandran sexually assaulted a four-year-old girl at a relative's house.

Authorities have conducted searches at Jayachandran's residence and the homes of his friends and relatives but his whereabouts remain unknown. His mobile phone is switched off and no information has been obtained regarding his current location.

The complaint against Jayachandran was filed by the child's mother with the Kasaba police, leading to the registration of POCSO case in June. The mother alleges that Jayachandran exploited family issues to assault her daughter. Following the complaint, the police recorded the child's statement at her residence.

Despite the ongoing investigation, Jayachandran applied for bail at the Kozhikode POCSO court, which was rejected on July 12. He filed an anticipatory bail application with the High Court, which is scheduled for hearing next week.

Koottickal Jayachandran began his career as a television anchor and later transitioned into acting, earning acclaim for his performances in various films.