Director Balachandrakumar, key witness in 2017 actress assault case, passes away

P. Balachandrakumar

Malayalam film director P. Balachandrakumar, who played a crucial role as a key witness in the high-profile 2017 actress assault case in Kerala, passed away early on Friday, according to sources from the film industry.

Balachandrakumar was well-known for his work in the Malayalam film industry and had a significant presence in the regional cinema landscape. His contribution to both cinema and his involvement in the case, which attracted widespread attention, made him a notable figure.

He passed away at 5:40 am while receiving treatment for a kidney ailment at the Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Science Hospital in Chengannur, sources confirmed.

Announcing his demise, Balachandrakumar’s friend and actor Prakash Bare wrote on Facebook: "After a long battle with illness and injustice, Balu has departed... Farewell, dear friend." His body will be brought to Thiruvananthapuram later.

The director had been battling multiple health complications, including kidney failure that required frequent dialysis, severe Covid-19 and heart issues, sources added.

Balachandrakumar directed the film 'Cowboy' in 2013.

In 2021, Balachandrakumar made a crucial statement against actor Dileep, who is a key accused in the sensational actress assault case in Kochi, alleging that the actor possessed visuals of the assault and had attempted to influence witnesses in the case.

He also claimed that Pulsar Suni, the prime accused in the case, was seen at Dileep's residence.

Balachandrakumar's revelations created ripples, leading to a fresh investigation in the case.

Also Read: Raakhee Gulzar’s Aamar Boss shines again as its selected for Indian Panorama at the 22nd Chennai International Film Festival

The 2017 case involves a South Indian actress who was allegedly abducted and sexually assaulted on the orders of Dileep.

In the final week of November, Balachandrakumar’s wife, Sheeba, made a public appeal for financial support to help with the increasing medical costs associated with his treatment. She expressed the family's struggle to manage the mounting expenses, seeking assistance from well-wishers to ease the burden during this difficult time.

(With Inputs: PTI)