Malayalam film director P Balachandrakumar, whose statements against actor Dileep – the alleged mastermind of the 2017 actor assault case in Kerala – turned the course of the case, is critically ill due to a kidney disease. His wife Sheeba has issued a statement, seeking financial help to cover his medical expenses. Currently, he is undergoing treatment at Dr KM Cherian Institute of Medical Science Hospital in Kottayam’s Thiruvalla.
Balachandrakumar made his first public statements against Dileep three years ago, nearly two years after the trial began in the actor assault case. Dileep, the eighth accused in the case of abducting and sexually assaulting a woman actor in Kochi, had a copy of the visuals of the attack, Balachandrakumar alleged, submitting a bunch of audio clips to prove his claim. The visuals, shot by the woman’s attackers, were in the custody of different courts from the time she filed the case. However, Balachandrakumar’s revelations opened new lines of investigation, including a case alleging threats to attack police officials probing the case.
The director has since then been unwell, going through multiple health issues—including a severe COVID-19 infection, surgery for kidney stones, kidney failure requiring frequent dialysis, an angioplasty procedure, and a prolonged and exhausting treatment for tuberculosis (TB). Recently, Balachandrakumar had a bypass surgery after tests revealed multiple blockages in his heart, which were conducted in preparation for a kidney transplant. According to his wife Sheeba, the surgery was successful, and he is expected to be discharged within a week. However, his current hospital bills for the cardiac procedure are expected to exceed Rs 5 lakh.
“His medical insurance is nearly depleted due to the extensive treatments he has undergone this year. I am reaching out to you with a heartfelt appeal to support Balachandrakumar, a courageous individual enduring an extraordinary battle for his health,” Sheeba stated in a note.
She said that Balachandrakumar’s decision to speak out in the actor assault case took a toll on his health. He attended the trial for 40 consecutive days despite the health challenges.
“I believe it is our moral responsibility to assist Balachandrakumar in his fight for health, especially given the bold stance and sacrifices he made to bring justice in one of the most heinous crimes against women in our legal history. Any amount, big or small, will make a difference. Please also encourage your friends and family to contribute,” Sheeba added.
Account Details:
Name: SHEEBA S M
Bank: KERALA GRAMIN BANK
Account Number: 40682101090657
IFSC: KLGB0040682
MICR Code: 695480032
Google Pay: 9633433333 (SHEEBA)
