Veteran tribal activist CK Janu has voiced strong criticism against the film Narivetta, directed by Anuraj Manohar and starring Tovino Thomas. Speaking to Mathrubhumi.com, Janu condemned the film for conveying a misleading message about the historic Muthanga tribal agitation.

Janu stated that the film wrongly portrays the police as protectors of women and children during the incident, whereas in reality, only violent police officers resembling wild animals were present at the scene. “No one other than these brutal policemen were seen there,” she said. “The depiction of police protecting women and children in Narivetta distorts the truth.”

Reflecting on two decades since the Muthanga struggle, Janu emphasised that Narivetta sends the wrong message to anyone wishing to understand the event. Contrary to the film’s portrayal of seven people being burned alive, Janu clarified that no such incident occurred. She criticised the film for misrepresenting a significant tribal protest, stating, "It is not right to depict the tribal movement in a way that suits the filmmakers’ convenience. If they lack the courage to show the truth, they should at least have the decency to remain silent."

Janu also responded to earlier remarks made by former Chief Minister AK Antony regarding the Muthanga incident. She welcomed Antony’s recognition that the actions then were wrong but insisted that for such an apology to hold meaning, it must be accompanied by proper political intervention on land rights. “A belated apology cannot heal the wounds caused by the brutal oppression of that time,” she added.

Describing police behaviour during the Muthanga incident, Janu recalled the severe violence inflicted even on young children, including beatings and head injuries. “The police were not human, but like beasts with hands and feet,” she said. “No matter who apologises, those atrocities will never be forgotten.”

The screenplay for Narivetta was written by Abin Joseph. The film stars Tovino Thomas, Cheran, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Priyamvada Krishna, Arya Salim, Rini Udayakumar, and Pranav Teophine in lead roles. Notably, Arya Salim portrayed a character reminiscent of CK Janu herself.