CPM letter leak: Puzhu director Ratheena alleges harassment, financial fraud by Sharshad

At a time when Kerala’s ruling CPM is in tight rope over the NRI businessman Rajesh Krishna-linked letter leak, filmmaker Ratheena PT, former wife of Chennai businessman Mohammed Sharshad, has spoken out. She hinted that the narrative against the NRI is aimed at gaining media attention, with someone advising that linking the party would attract coverage, though the core issue is a personal dispute between her and Sharshad. She claimed the ongoing campaign against her is an attempt to publicly attack her.

In a detailed Facebook post, Ratheena accused Sharshad of orchestrating harassment, saying she sought a divorce due to his “constant abuse” and submitted court documents, including judgments, to substantiate her claims. Addressing media references to a “Chennai-based businessman,” she said all reports were tied to personal hostility. Alleged threats included public humiliation, denial of work in cinema, social ostracism, and harassment resembling cases involving Saritha (solar scam) and Swapna (gold smuggling). She said evidence, including voice messages, had been submitted to court.

Financial fraud and court interventions

Ratheena claimed her first film was shot in March 2021 after a court protection order. She alleged Sharshad took a loan using her father as guarantor, failed to repay, and falsely claimed settlement. The default nearly led to the seizure of her family home, with Rs 2.65 crore to be paid. He absconded after switching off his phone. Seeking assistance, she approached then-minister Thomas Isaac, whose intervention temporarily halted proceedings. Sharshad later accused her of illicit relationships during her financial stress and lodged a complaint against the bank.

On November 29, 2024, the court ruled in Ratheena’s favour, instructing that neither she nor her family or colleagues should face adverse remarks via social or electronic media. Police were tasked with ensuring compliance. Sharshad was ordered to return Rs 2.2 crore within six months but has not complied. In November 2024, the family court granted her divorce and full custody of the children. Despite repeated court orders, Sharshad has not provided maintenance, returned ID cards or passports, and continues to demean her, her family, and friends.

Ratheena alleged that when Rajesh Krishna filed a case against Sharshad, he threatened to spread false stories about her sister. Months before the verdict, he gave a YouTube interview demeaning Malayalam actor Mammootty, which the media largely ignored. She claimed locals were influenced against her and that someone advised linking the CPM to attract media attention. Police had already filed an FIR against him, but he did not appear in court. Despite divorce and a protection order, harassment continues.

Pattern of financial deceit

Ratheena accused Sharshad of misusing the term “entrepreneur” to siphon funds, claiming he started businesses by raising money from others, assessing markets, cheating people, etc. She alleged he defrauded individuals in Chennai, Dubai, Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Kochi, and many victims have filed complaints.

Personal safety and message to public

Ratheena insisted she has no involvement in money laundering and denied knowing CPM state secretary MV Govindan or his son.

“I am the answer to the question of why some women commit suicide after divorce. I could not endure his torture, and that is why I divorced him. People like him constantly betray those who fight to survive. Some people weaken and die. I am not safe now. I am waiting for the next court verdict. I believe the court will immediately recover the money from this businessman. The police must ensure the safety ordered by the court for me and my children. Do not think that harassing me will drive me to suicide. My children and I will remain here,” she said in her Facebook post. Ratheena concluded by noting that Court rulings and FIR copies are available in the comment section of her post.