Dileep verdict shapes poll mood amidst UDF self-goal

Election-day conversations were marked by arguments over the acquittal of actor Dileep in the 2017 sexual assault case, as political leaders’ remarks sharpened public focus on whether the State’s handling of the high-profile trial could influence voter sentiment.

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United Democratic Front convenor Adoor Prakash scored a self-goal by declaring that justice has been delivered to Dileep and further alleging that the government was attempting to “further victimise” the actor by moving the High Court against his acquittal.

The remarks, made as polling unfolded across constituencies on Tuesday, added an unexpected layer to an already charged campaign cycle dominated by debates on governance, law and order, Sabarimala gold heist and the performance of the ruling coalition.

His criticism appeared to run counter to the mood of the voters engaged in discussions at polling stations, tea shops and local gatherings, who were unhappy justice was dihaited to the survivor.