Mukesh out, Unnikrishnan resigns: Kerala’s film policy committee faces major shake-up

Thiruvananthapuram: Actor and MLA Mukesh has been dropped from the government committee tasked with drafting the film policy for Kerala. The policy committee has been reconstituted and is now led by Kerala State Chalachitra Academy Chairman Prem Kumar, with Kerala Cultural Activists Welfare Fund Board Chairman Madhupal as a member.

Previously, the committee, chaired by Film Development Corporation Chairman Shaji N. Karun, included former Secretary of the Cultural Affairs Department Mini Antony as convener. Following Mini's retirement, Kerala State Chalachitra Academy Secretary C. Ajoy has taken over as convener.

Mukesh's removal comes amidst widespread demands for his exit from the committee following accusations related to a sexual harassment complaint. He is currently out on bail after being arrested in connection with the case.

Additionally, Director B. Unnikrishnan, who represented the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA), recently resigned from the committee.

In July 2023, when the ten-member committee was initially formed to develop a new film policy, both Director Rajeev Ravi and actress Manju Warrier opted out due to their busy filming schedules.

The reconstituted committee now includes actresses Padmapriya and Nikhila Vimal, as well as producer Santhosh T. Kuruvilla. An official order regarding the committee's structure is expected to be issued on Monday.