With the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) elections due on August 15, actor Shwetha Menon’s candidacy for president has drawn widespread attention. If successful, Menon would become the first woman to lead the 30-year-old organisation. Her main opponent is veteran actor Devan.

The contest narrowed after several candidates withdrew. Actor Jagadish pulled out, reportedly to support a woman contender, although his prior remarks about the executive committee may have influenced his decision. Filmmaker Joy Mathew’s nomination was rejected on procedural grounds, while actor Baburaj withdrew following scrutiny over past allegations.

FIR filed against Menon under IT and Immoral Traffic Acts

Menon’s campaign took an unexpected turn with the Ernakulam Central police registering a First Information Report (FIR) under Section 67A of the Information Technology Act. The complaint, filed by a local resident, alleged that Menon profited from acting in obscene films circulated online.

Sections of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act have also been invoked. The police confirmed that an investigation will proceed.

Martin Menachery, who filed the complaint, told media that there is no link between his case and Menon’s election bid. He claimed to have approached the Central police on March 3, and only later turned to the court when no action was taken. The court then directed the police to register the case.

Menachery said the complaint was prompted by an interview Menon gave to an online media outlet, where she allegedly said she would perform in sexually explicit videos again if paid.

When asked why only Menon was named and not directors or producers, Menachery gave no clear response. He reiterated that earning money from acting in obscene content is a violation under the IT Act.

Censor concerns and court direction

Menachery also responded to criticism about the films in question being certified by the censor board. He said censored films could still be reviewed if new complaints arise. The case was first presented before the Chief Judicial Magistrate’s court, which instructed police to proceed based on prima facie findings.

Other key contestants in AMMA election

While the presidential race dominates attention, the contest includes several prominent candidates.

The vice president post features Jayan Cherthala, Lakshmi Priya, Navya Nair, and Nasser Latheef. Kukku Parameswaran and Ravindran are among the general secretary aspirants.

Anoop Chandran has submitted nominations for both president and general secretary. Unni Shivapal and Suresh Krishna are vying for treasurer.

Ansiba Hassan has already been elected unopposed as joint secretary after 12 of the 13 contenders withdrew.

Devan claims internal pressures

Shwetha Menon’s opponent Devan said he only joined the race after Mohanlal opted out. He also alleged that those speaking to the media were threatened with nomination cancellations, which he plans to challenge legally.