LIFE
Acclaimed Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith resigned from his position as chairman of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy on Sunday amid allegations of misconduct made by a Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra in 2009. In a media interview Mitra described a scene where, during a phone call with the cinematographer, Ranjith was present and behaved inappropriately. “The room was dark and there was a balcony. While I was speaking on the phone, Ranjith stood beside me, fiddling with my bangles and touching my skin. Women have an instinct for these situations. I felt uneasy but tried to give him the benefit of the doubt, thinking maybe he was just interested in my bangles. Despite my discomfort, I remained calm. When he noticed my passive reaction and continued touching my neck and hair, I decided to excuse myself and leave the room,” she recounted. “This wasn’t entirely surprising to me, as I am familiar with the film industry ’s dynamics, knowing there are both good and bad individuals.” In an audio message sent to a television channel, Ranjith stated that he chose to step down to prevent any negative impact on the reputation of the Left government in Kerala. He also affirmed his intention to contest the allegations legally. “I have been targeted by certain individuals since I assumed the role of Chairman of the Academy. I need to clear my name and prove the allegations false. I have decided to pursue legal action to reveal the truth,” Ranjith said in the audio clip. He also mentioned, “Many, including the media, are attacking me without understanding the facts. Given this situation, I have decided to resign.” The filmmaker has denied the allegations, claiming he is the “real victim” in the situation. Following Ranjith’s resignation announcement, State Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan stated that the government would accept the resignation once it is formally submitted. Cheriyan emphasised that the Left government has always supported victims of sexual misconduct and denied accusations of attempting to shield Ranjith. He also criticised the media for misinterpreting his earlier comments, asserting that he has consistently taken a strong stance on women’s issues and that the government’s position remains clear—supporting victims and taking firm action against perpetrators. Cheriyan’s earlier comments, which appeared to downplay the allegations, sparked controversy and led him to clarify on Facebook that the government would not protect anyone guilty of misconduct. Ranjith’s resignation comes amid growing protests and criticism from opposition parties, including Congress and BJP , who argue that he no longer has the moral authority to hold his position. BJP activists staged a protest march to Ranjith’s residence in Kozhikode, while Youth Congress members protested outside his temporary stay in Meppadi, Wayanad district. YC state vice-president Abin Varkey also filed a formal complaint with the police. The accusations against Ranjith have intensified scrutiny of the Pinarayi Vijayan government, which is already under pressure due to the Justice Hema Committee report exposing harassment and exploitation within the Malayalam film industry. The report has sparked demands for accountability and action against those involved. With inputs from PTI None
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