Mass resignation at AMMA: Entire executive committee quits amid leadership crisis

Kochi: The entire executive committee of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) has resigned on Sunday, amid growing criticism of the organisation's leadership.

The decision was taken after AMMA's general body meeting held in Kochi on Sunday.

The major development came following discussions on the organisation's annual report.

Members attending the annual general body meeting declined to approve both the annual report and the accounts, citing shortcomings in the documents. Members pointed out several deficiencies and raised concerns during the discussion.

During the meeting, AMMA president Shweta Menon announced her resignation. However, fellow members persuaded her to reconsider the decision and continue in the position.

Following those developments, the executive committee announced that it would resign en masse.

Temporary committee may be appointed

The executive committee comprises 17 members.

With the committee stepping down, the organisation's administration is likely to be handed over to a temporary committee until further decisions are made.

Allegations and counter-allegations within the leadership are understood to have contributed to the mass resignation.

Organisation faces unprecedented situation

The crisis is being viewed as one of the most serious challenges in AMMA's history.

Veteran actors Mammootty and Suresh Gopi did not attend Sunday's meeting. Mohanlal was the only leading star present at the gathering.

Controversy surrounding Ansiba

A section of the leadership has accused actor Ansiba of attempting to damage the organisation through repeated public statements.

Ansiba, however, has said she experienced significant humiliation and emotional distress because of the actions of Lakshmipriya, one of AMMA's key office-bearers, and executive committee member Tiny Tom.

There are indications that the organisation may move ahead with disciplinary action against Ansiba.

Divided views within the organisation

At the same time, another section of members has argued that Ansiba's concerns and positions should be examined carefully before any action is taken.

Earlier, AMMA had issued show-cause notices to Tiny Tom, Joy Mathew and Lakshmipriya for making public statements that were allegedly in violation of the organisation's constitution.