Malayalam Movie Stars Eye New Union Amid Scandal

Members of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) are considering establishing a new trade union in partnership with the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA). This move follows sex-scandal allegations that have already weakened AMMA. FEFKA's general secretary, B Unnikrishnan, revealed that actors have expressed interest in the new union formation.

A group of actors from the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists is seeking to break away and form a new trade union with the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA), potentially weakening AMMA, already reeling from sex-scandal allegations against some prominent members.

According to an industry official, certain actors have approached FEFKA to register a new union. B Unnikrishnan, FEFKA's general secretary, confirmed that actors have met him to discuss the formation of a new trade union.

Unnikrishnan said actors want to retain the present organisation but wish to form another trade union. He noted that actors in Mumbai are part of a federation affiliated with a trade union. If the actors desire to form a union, they should write to the FEFKA general council or form a trade union and then seek affiliation. No decision has been taken yet; the general council will decide on the matter.

Unnikrishnan also clarified that AMMA members had approached him on various occasions with similar proposals. The AMMA has no elected office-bearers after its 17-member executive committee resigned following sexual-harassment allegations post-Justice Hema Committee report release.

(With inputs from agencies.)