Malayalam actor Nivin Pauly booked in rape case; he says allegations ‘entirely untrue’

Malayalam actor Nivin Pauly has been named in a rape case alongside five others, following a complaint filed by a woman alleging sexual assault under the pretense of being offered a film role. The case has been registered at the Oonnukal police station in Ernakulam, Kerala, under various sections of the Indian Penal Code, including Section 376 (rape). Nivin, who is listed as the sixth accused, has categorically denied the allegations, describing them as entirely false and baseless. The complaint was filed by a 40-year-old woman who alleged that the incident took place in Dubai in November 2023. She claimed that she was invited to Dubai on the promise of a film role and was subsequently assaulted in a hotel room. According to the complaint, the assault involved multiple individuals, including producer AK Sunil and others who are also named in the case. Nivin Pauly responded by holding a press conference where he vehemently denied knowing the complainant. He labeled the allegations as a conspiracy intended to defame him and suggested that these charges were part of a broader attempt to tarnish his reputation. He mentioned that he had been aware of a similar complaint filed against him earlier, which was dismissed as a fake case by the authorities at that time​. In his defense, Nivin Pauly stated that he would pursue all legal avenues to prove his innocence and counter the accusations. He expressed his determination to fight the charges not just for himself but also to set a precedent against what he described as false allegations that could affect others in the industry. He criticized the media for sensationalizing the claims without verifying the facts and urged for a more responsible approach when reporting such sensitive matters​.

During his press conference, Nivin recalled that an officer had informed him about a similar complaint approximately one and a half months prior, and at that time, the case was deemed baseless by the police. He also disclosed that he had considered filing a counter-complaint but was advised against it by the authorities, who suggested that such accusations were often made for publicity. The accusations against Nivin Pauly come at a time when the Malayalam film industry is grappling with numerous allegations of sexual misconduct, sparked by the revelations of the Hema Committee report. This report, which was made public recently, highlighted systemic issues such as sexual harassment, casting couch practices, and exploitation within the industry. Following its release, several prominent figures, including actors and directors, have been accused of similar offenses. The Kerala government has responded by setting up a special investigation team to probe the numerous allegations, reflecting the growing demand for accountability within the industry​. The accusations against Nivin Pauly have sent shockwaves through the Malayalam film industry, which is already dealing with a series of sexual harassment allegations. Industry peers, fans, and the public have expressed mixed reactions. While some have voiced support for Nivin, emphasizing his right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty, others have called for a thorough investigation to ensure justice for the complainant. Nivin’s stance on fighting the allegations has garnered attention, with many praising his decision to confront the charges head-on. However, the actor’s reputation, along with the careers of other accused individuals in the industry, remains at stake as the legal process unfolds. As the case progresses, Nivin Pauly and the other accused are expected to face intense scrutiny. The actor has pledged to fully cooperate with the investigation and has hinted at pursuing legal action against the complainant for defamation. His legal team is reportedly preparing a case to counter the claims, arguing that such false accusations could severely impact the lives and careers of those involved. The unfolding of this case will likely be closely watched, as it not only involves a popular actor but also reflects broader issues of accountability and reform within the Malayalam film industry. Nivin Pauly’s legal battle could set a significant precedent in addressing the growing concerns of false allegations and the impact they have on those accused.