‘Political parties including Congress explicitly or implicitly support continuation of caste hierarchies,’ says Hakkim Shah

Actor Hakkim Shah has courted attention with a bold political stance during a recent promotional interview, claiming that only individuals with a communist mindset are capable of dismantling India's entrenched caste system. In his view, all other political parties — including the Congress — either explicitly or implicitly support the continuation of caste hierarchies for political gain.

Speaking to a YouTube channel as part of the promotion of an upcoming film, Shah was responding to a question on whether censorship affects artistic freedom in cinema. In the process, he also elaborated on the ideological foundations of a Tamil film he acted in two years ago, titled Manushi, produced by Vetrimaaran and directed by Gopi Nainar.

“The film engages with a strong political narrative rooted in communism,” said Shah, explaining that his character — a police officer — represents the ruling establishment and upholds the necessity of caste divisions. The scene in question, which takes place during an interrogation, features actor Andrea Jeremiah as a woman who challenges his authority from a distinctly communist perspective.

“The dialogue clearly states: only those with a communist mindset can dismantle this system. That ideology alone has the tools to take it apart,” Shah noted.

He went on to say that, whether it is the Congress or any other mainstream party — without taking further names — they all benefit from maintaining caste structures, either overtly or subtly.

“They find it easier to govern that way,” he said. “By manipulating caste-based loyalties, they keep people divided and in line.”

Shah also highlighted his experience with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC), claiming that his film initially faced 67 suggested cuts, most of them targeting scenes involving his character.

“With 67 cuts, there’s no film left,” he said. However, after legally challenging the decision in court, the number of cuts was eventually reduced to 30.

Known for his great performances, Hakkim Shah’s latest remarks have sparked discussions both in cultural and political circles. Interestingly his politically charged comments come amid renewed debate over freedom of expression in cinema.