The Pinarayi Vijayan government in Kerala is under renewed scrutiny following allegations of misconduct leveled against eminent Malayalam director and Kerala Chalachitra Academy chairman, Ranjith. The accusations come from Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra, who claims Ranjith behaved inappropriately during a meeting years ago.
Mitra’s allegations add to the pressure on the Kerala government, which is already facing criticism for its inaction over the Justice Hema Committee report. The report highlighted instances of harassment and exploitation of women in the Malayalam film industry, sparking calls for accountability.
Recalling the incident, Mitra said, “The person concerned is a big name in Malayalam cinema and a national award-winning director. I went to his residence to discuss a film project, but his behavior made me uncomfortable. He made subtle advances without my consent, and I immediately decided to withdraw from the project and returned to Kolkata the next day.”
Mitra, who has not faced similar issues in the Bengali film industry, encouraged other women to speak out against such experiences. “The incident happened years ago, but it’s heartening that more women are now coming forward with their stories. I hope the number of such cases decreases, and women no longer have to endure these situations,” she added.
Ranjith has denied the allegations, claiming that he is the “real victim” in the situation. Despite his denial, the accusations have sparked a political firestorm. The Communist Party of India (CPI), a key constituent of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), has called for an investigation. Opposition parties, including the Congress and the BJP, have demanded Ranjith step down from his position as Academy chairman.
Kerala Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan assured that the government would not protect anyone guilty of wrongdoing. “If the allegations are proven, action will be taken,” he said, while noting that a complaint must be filed for legal proceedings to begin.
Health Minister Veena George and Higher Education Minister R Bindhu echoed Cheriyan’s sentiments, affirming that the government stands ready to support Mitra if she decides to pursue the complaint. Women’s Commission chairperson P Sathidevi and opposition leader V D Satheesan also urged Ranjith to resign, emphasizing that the matter must be thoroughly investigated.
As the controversy unfolds, the Kerala government faces mounting pressure to act decisively and uphold its commitment to supporting women in the workplace.
