Prem Kumar, who replaced Ranjith as the interim chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy following allegations of sexual misconduct against the latter, says people shouldn't judge him by his comic roles in films. Prem Kumar, who holds a degree in psychology and was a top ranker in theatre arts, is also the author of the book 'Daivathinte Avakashikal', a collection of essays addressing social issues, none of which contain even a hint of humour.

Did controversies arise before the conclave on cinema policy?

The conclave isn’t just about discussing issues in the film industry; it’s also about suggesting solutions and implementing some of them. Therefore, boycotting the conclave is not the answer—one should participate and express dissent. If there are participants who cannot share the stage with others, they can voice it. Those responsible will discuss this, and if there are accused individuals, we can consider excluding them. We are all collaborators, and we need everyone’s cooperation to formulate a comprehensive cinema policy. This policy will not be just for the current government but for all future governments as well, and it’s something every political party should welcome.

Is there a criticism that only sexual harassment is being discussed in the Hema Committee Report?

In the past, when we heard about abuses against women, we thought they were just rumours, figments of imagination, or fabricated stories. But the Hema Committee report corrected those notions. The allegations raised in it need to be investigated, and those found guilty should be punished. The report also highlights other significant issues, such as the lack of basic facilities on sets, inadequate pay, and the denial of opportunities when concerns are voiced. However, the media and the public seem to focus primarily on news related to sexual abuse and harassment. The Hema Committee has submitted around 24 recommendations to the government. The government deserves praise for setting up such a committee; the only complaint is the delay in making the report public. The reasons for this delay are known to everyone.

Allegations of Increasing Drug Use in Malayalam Cinema

This is something actor Sreenivasan pointed out years ago. Following his statements, a committee was formed to investigate, but it didn’t prove effective due to strong opposition. There were issues with allowing police on sets. When formulating a comprehensive cinema policy at the conclave, we’ll discuss all this. I understand that the investigation committee’s scope includes all crimes, including drug use.

Currently, the government spends around Rs 30 crores annually on the film industry. However, even basic data collection about the industry doesn’t happen. We lack information on how many films are being shot, where, and who is involved. Only with such information can the government intervene effectively. There needs to be a mechanism for this. Alongside protecting the film industry, it’s essential to bring in positive changes and ensure transparency.

What are your thoughts on the allegations of mafia rivalries in Malayalam cinema?

I was born into an ordinary family in Kazhakkoottam, Thiruvananthapuram, with no connection to cinema. Even dreaming about cinema was impossible. If there were any kind of lobbies or power groups, someone like me wouldn’t have been able to enter the industry and act in over 150 films, including 18 as the lead. Early on, I got roles in television, like ‘Lambo’, which got noticed, and opportunities followed. I wasn’t part of any lobby, nor have I experienced anything like that. I’ve received support from all quarters. I didn’t run after or organise any opportunities—they came to me. If anyone else has had a different experience, they should speak up.

What do you have to say about the mass resignation in AMMA?

The office bearers should not have resigned for any reason. I’m a founding member of this democratic organisation. The accused stepped aside, and that’s good. But why did those without any allegations against them resign? There’s currently no accusation against Mohanlal. There was no reason for the mass resignation. Besides, those who resigned alongside Mohanlal seem to have been scapegoats. Resignation from people without allegations is undemocratic and an insult to the ordinary members who elected them through voting. I strongly demand that Mohanalal and others return to their positions. They should come back and lead courageously.

How do you see Nivin Pauly's response to allegations against him?

Nivin Pauly deserves praise for the way he faced the media and tackled the issue. Now, evidence in his favour is also emerging. There are many allegations floating around these days. Some may be true, but most are half-truths or outright lies. There may be motives like blackmailing and seeking revenge behind them. That’s why thorough investigations are essential. No one should be crucified solely based on an allegation, and society shouldn’t do it either. It seems like the trials happening now view cinema as a society of sinners, while everything else is seen as sacred. ‘Let the one without sin among you cast the first stone,’ said Jesus Christ. The current approach that sees only film people as despicable is cruel. If tomorrow the accused are proven innocent, what can be done to compensate for the suffering endured by them and their families? Therefore, I earnestly request that we stop judging and sentencing people prematurely. There are systems and laws in place authorised to do that. Let them investigate and, if found guilty, punish. But let’s stop branding people as criminals beforehand.

Read the full interview here.