A high-profile legal battle has emerged in Kochi involving a well-known doctor, Johnson K Varghese, who is embroiled in a complex case of alleged assault and extortion. The doctor has sought anticipatory bail from the Ernakulam Sessions Court, arguing that the rape allegations against him are part of a larger extortion plot demanding Rs 3 crore.
Allegations and Denials
Dr. Varghese has been accused of sexually assaulting a 50-year-old woman at a hotel near Kochi’s Infopark on October 10. However, he has denied these allegations, asserting that the complainant was a long-term patient and that they shared a close friendship. His bail petition suggests that the complaint is fabricated.
In an interesting twist, Dr. Varghese has filed a counterclaim accusing an actor, related to the complainant, of orchestrating a setup. He alleges that the actor deceitfully brought him to a flat in Kochi’s Kadavanthra area under the guise of needing urgent medical care. Upon arrival, he claims to have been assaulted, tied up, and recorded in compromising situations by the actor and her associates.
Claims of Extortion
According to Dr. Varghese’s petition, the group demanded Rs 3 crore, threatening to release the videos if he did not comply. He further claims to possess WhatsApp messages proving that the actor had requested money even before the incident occurred. The doctor argues that the sexual assault complaint was a retaliatory move after he refused to pay and sought legal action against the group.
Despite these serious counterclaims, the police have registered a sexual assault case against Dr. Varghese based on the woman’s complaint. The allegations made by the doctor remain unverified as the court prepares to deliberate on his anticipatory bail application.
Legal Proceedings
In connection with the assault case, actors Athulya Chandran and Bibin Perumpally were previously arrested. They appeared before the Kochi magistrate court, which has granted police custody for two days to further investigate their involvement.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case has captured significant public attention due to its complex nature and the involvement of prominent figures. The court’s decision on the bail application is anticipated to be a pivotal moment in the unfolding legal drama.
Source: NDTV India
