Kochi: Kerala Culture Minister Saji Cheriyan on Sunday condemned the misogynistic remarks made by actor Alencier Ley Lopez during the recently held distribution ceremony of Kerala State Film Awards. The minister termed the remarks as substandard.  

“The memento was designed years ago no one ever has said anything about it,” he stated.

The minister also expressed dissatisfaction with Alencier’s take on prize money for the Special Jury award. “The award itself has a value worth more than Rs 25,000 given. That is a recognition given by the state and its people,” he noted.

Receiving the award, Alencier had said, “Special Jury Award winners should be presented with a gold-plated statuette. Do not tempt us with this female sculpture. In a state with a manly chief minister, give us a sculpture with masculine strength.” He further added that the award money was insufficient and addressing the award jury chairman Goutam Ghose, he said: “Don’t insult me and Kunchacko Boban by giving a mere Rs 25,000. Please increase the (award) amount.”