The ruling LDF led by the CPI(M) in Kerala took a firm stance, asserting that Ranjith's resignation was inevitable.
Published Aug 25, 2024 | 10:25 AM ⚊ Updated Aug 25, 2024 | 11:40 AM
Ranjith at IFFK. (Photo: K B jayachandran)
Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith resigned from his position as the chairman of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy on Sunday, 25 August, following allegations of sexual assault by Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra
The ruling LDF led by the CPI(M) in Kerala took a firm stance, asserting that Ranjith’s resignation was inevitable, which led to him being pressured to step down.
Ranjith informed the government about his willingness to resign after there were numerous calls to oust him from the post.
Ranjith said that he would address the allegations against him legally and prove his innocence. He stated the accusations as part of an organised effort against the state government.
Meanwhile, actress Sreelekha said: “I have already said everything I need to say. I have no further comments. It does not affect me.”
On Saturday, Ranjith, who was in Wayanad, removed the official nameplate from his car.
The sudden resignation of the filmmaker is seen as a proactive step taken by the Left government in the state to save its face following the comments made by Cultural Minister Saji Cheriyan regarding the incident.
Cheriyan, on Saturday morning, backed Ranjith by saying it was “not right to penalise an acclaimed director like Ranjith based on allegations alone”.
Cheriyan remarked that action could only be taken if an official complaint was filed against Ranjith.
Sreelekha Mitra told the media on Saturday that she couldn’t file a complaint in Kerala since she lives in West Bengal now.
“I can go ahead with the complaint if someone is willing to help me with the legal proceedings,” she added.
Cheriyan had said that the Kerala government stands with women.
Even though the Opposition had demanded the removal of Ranjith from the Academy, Cherian said that the decision would be taken by the CPI (M).
Filmmakers including Aashiq Abu and Sandra Thomas had also called for action against the allegations.
On Friday, the Bengal-based actor made some shocking revelations against Ranjith.
She alleged that after inviting her to audition for a role in the Malayalam movie Paleri Manikyam: Oru Pathirakolapathakathinte Katha (2009), the director touched her arm in a manner that felt inappropriate.
Sreelekha Mitra said he toyed with her bangles and stroked her hair. When he attempted to touch her neck, she left the room. The next day, the actor was told that she wouldn’t be part of the movie.
Sreelekha Mitra clarified that there was no sexual assault but Ranjith’s behaviour gave the impression that such an intention might have been there.
Meanwhile, Ranjith reacted to the allegations stating that Sreelekha Mitra auditioned for a role in Paleri Manikyam: Oru Pathirakolapathakathinte Katha but was refused the part as she was not an apt choice.
He had also denied having misbehaved with her in any manner.
(Edited by Muhammed Fazil)
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