Malayalam Filmmaker Ranjith Resigns Amid Misbehaviour Allegations

Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith resigned as the chairman of Kerala Chalachitra Academy after being accused of misbehaviour by a Bengali actress. He denies the allegations, claiming to be the real victim. Ranjith decided to resign to avoid impacting the reputation of Kerala's Left government. Legal battles are expected to follow.

Renowned Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith has resigned as the chairman of Kerala Chalachitra Academy following allegations of misbehaviour made by a Bengali actress.

The actress claimed that Ranjith behaved inappropriately during a 2009 film shoot. Ranjith has denied these allegations, asserting that he is the true victim in this situation.

In an audio clip sent to a television channel, the filmmaker stated his resignation was to protect the Left government's reputation. He emphasized plans to legally contest the accusations, claiming that he has been unfairly targeted since assuming the chairman role.

Despite the state government's readiness to take legal action if the actress files a complaint, she has refused, citing relentless media harassment. Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan has confirmed the government will accept Ranjith's resignation.

This incident has sparked political controversy, with opposition parties and activists calling for more stringent actions. The Pinarayi Vijayan government is facing increased scrutiny, particularly in light of the Justice Hema Committee's report on harassment in the Malayalam cinema industry.

(With inputs from agencies.)