Kochi: The storm that erupted after the release of the Hema Committee report continues to shake the foundations of the Malayalam film industry, as allegations and mudslinging steadily damage the reputations of many stars. As the scene remains murky,  director Ashiq Abu has criticized the silence of director B. Unnikrishnan, the general secretary of the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA). Speaking to Mathrubhumi News on Wednesday, Ashiq Abu said that Unnikrishnan’s silence cannot be seen as the silence of the entire FEFKA. “The silence of FEFKA was discussed both within the organisation and outside,” he said.

“The explanatory note released by the organisation is the result of this discussion. But this is inadequate; it is a deliberate attempt to divert attention from the serious issues being raised by staying in a safe zone. The leaders of the organization are trying to create a false impression that the real problem is policy formation and lack of basic facilities,” Ashiq Abu said.

“In 2017, an unprecedented incident of violence occurred in Malayalam film industry. The interventions made by B. Unnikrishnan as a leader of a trade union during that period revealed his true nature. The man, who finds it convenient to comment on even trivial matters and is always ready to face the media, is now silent about the current controversy. This silence of Unnikrishnan, who has previously taken an apolitical stance and always aligns with the powerful forces controlling the industry, should not be regarded as the silence of the organisation, which serves as an umbrella for 21 trade unions working at various levels within the Malayalam film industry.”

Ashiq Abu also criticised the barbs hidden in FEFKA's press release, which mentioned those who create a false impression of brave honesty. “B. Unnikrishnan should not write from a hiding place. He should come out and tell the public who is creating a false image here. In the coming days, we will see who is living as a pseudo-leftist. Unnikrishnan’s silence is a serious issue. It is not appropriate to throw barbs through a press release. The role of a trade union is highly relevant; it should be able to fight against injustice in the system. But here, the organisation seems to side with the predators,” Ashiq Abu said.

“The point raised by director Vinayan is quite relevant. I started my film career in 2002 and have witnessed many events here. I know the reasons behind the split of MACTA and the real  intentions behind it,” Ashiq Abu added.