CPM state secretariat likely to decide on Mukesh's future course in Friday meeting

Thiruvananthapuram: In a significant move, the CPM has decided not to defend its Kollam MLA and actor Mukesh against the sexual harassment allegations raised against him. The CPM has also decided to make it his personal responsibility to address and explain the allegations, as the party has reached a consensus that the rising allegations in the film sector should not be addressed politically.

It has also been decided to remove Mukesh from the film policy formulation committee. The party appears to be setting the stage for Mukesh to leave voluntarily.

The policy formulation committee was established a year ago. Therefore, leaders are of the opinion that the allegations against him should not be viewed as a lapse of government.

Allegations have been made against director Ranjith and Mukesh, who are part of the Left Front. Ranjith has resigned from the chairmanship of the film academy. The CPM's stance until now has been that Mukesh need not resign as MLA.

No political party has a precedent of making its MLAs resign when allegations are raised against them. However, leaders are of the opinion that there is no need to provide such protection in other positions.

The CPM state secretariat will meet on Friday, during which the party is expected to review the events following the release of the Hema Committee report.

There is an understanding within the CPM that the party should not engage with the political arguments presented by those facing charges. The situation suggests that Mukesh cannot continue on the film policy formulation committee. Therefore, his departure seems imminent. If not, it is likely that either the CPM or the government will instruct him to vacate the position.

The committee was formed in June 2023 at a meeting chaired by Culture Minister Saji Cherian. In the 10-member committee, chaired by Shaji N Karun, all members except the Culture Department secretary are from the film industry. Actress Manju Warrier and cinematographer Rajeev Ravi, who were part of the committee, had resigned earlier, citing a lack of time as their reason for leaving.

Should Mukesh depart, the 10-member committee will be reduced to seven members.