The Kerala Police announced on Wednesday that actor Vinayakan has been charged with the maximum offenses for causing a disturbance at the Ernakulam Police Station.
Kochi DCP S Sasidharan responded to allegations made by Thrikkakara MLA Uma Thomas, claiming that the actor was let off lightly due to his Left affiliations.
Vinayakan, who verbally abused police officers at the station, was arrested and subsequently released on Tuesday night following a medical examination.
He is facing charges for behaving without self-control in a public place, shouting at government officials without cause, and engaging in indecent behavior.
"The police have not succumbed to any influence. A case has been filed under two sections of the Kerala Police Act for creating a disturbance and obstructing duty. Each offense is punishable by up to three years in jail. Currently, there is no evidence to suggest that Vinayakan attempted to assault the officials. CCTV footage is also under examination. If it is proven that an assault occurred, additional charges will be filed," stated the DCP.
"The police will intervene if he has a personal problem. The actor tends to have issues after consuming alcohol. Similar incidents have occurred in the past as well," he added.
Congress MLA Uma Thomas expressed her dismay on social media, criticizing the authorities for releasing Vinayakan on bail with minor charges.
She stated, "We witnessed Vinayakan's drunken behavior in the media. He verbally abused police officers, including the SHO on duty at Ernakulam North Station. Despite his outrageous behavior and interference with police duties, he was released on bail with weak charges. Is this preferential treatment due to his political affiliations? Or is it following instructions from Cliff House? I am curious. Regardless of the reasons, this incident is undeniably demoralizing for police officers who work with integrity..." in a Facebook post.
