Bengali Actress Accuses Top Malayalam Director of Misconduct, Sparking Political Controversy

Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra accused prominent Malayalam director Ranjith of misbehavior, reigniting political controversy in Kerala. The allegations relate to an incident years ago amidst calls for action over the Justice Hema Committee report revealing harassment in the Malayalam film industry. Protests demand Ranjith's resignation as Kerala Chalachitra Academy chairman.

Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra has accused esteemed Malayalam film director Ranjith of misconduct, igniting fresh political controversy in Kerala.

Mitra's allegations coincide with calls for action over the Justice Hema Committee report, which exposed harassment in the Malayalam film industry. She described discomfort with Ranjith's advances during a script discussion years ago and decided to avoid further interaction with him since.

The accusation adds to mounting pressure on the Pinarayi Vijayan government. Mitra's claims have led to widespread protests demanding Ranjith's resignation from his post as the chairman of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy.

(With inputs from agencies.)