Kochi: Director Ranjith, who was remanded in custody following arrest in a sexual assault case, has been granted bail by the Ernakulam Judicial Magistrate Court.

The court allowed the bail plea subject to specific conditions, and it is reported that Ranjith, currently held at the Ernakulam Sub Jail, will be released shortly.

During the proceedings, the prosecution strongly opposed the bail, primarily arguing that the director has been uncooperative with the investigation. They further contended that because the witnesses in the case are individuals who have worked in films directed by the accused, there is a major risk that he might influence or intimidate them if released.

Conversely, Ranjith's legal team argued that the allegations were the result of a personal vendetta against him. The director claimed that he had previously pointed out deficiencies in the complainant's acting and had edited out certain scenes involving her, which he believes motivated the complaint. His lawyer also maintained that simply denying the charges does not constitute a lack of cooperation with the investigative authorities.