Thrissur: Kerala Minister for Culture Saji Cherian has responded to the controversy surrounding actor Premkumar’s removal as Chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, clarifying that it was a routine decision made after the previous committee’s term expired.

“Their term had come to an end, so it was the government’s responsibility to appoint new office-bearers. Beyond that, I don’t see anything unusual. I believe Premkumar was informed. I was abroad at the time, and the duty to communicate this lay with the academy officials. I trust that was done,” the Minister told reporters in Thrissur.

Addressing criticism that Premkumar was sidelined, Cherian emphasised that the government had always shown appreciation for him.

“During the Left government’s tenure, the recognition given to him was significant. I don’t know what he said about the Asha protest, but I’ve never heard him speak against the Left. He’s a crystal-clear leftist. The government and the party have always treated him with respect, and he has performed his duties well,” the minister said.

Cherian added that he had personally spoken with Premkumar after the change.

“I spoke to him directly and publicly acknowledged his contributions. There’s no reason for him to feel upset. We have always supported him. Administrative success isn’t the work of one person—it’s the result of teamwork and collective effort. As far as I know, he was aware of the transition when the new team took charge,” he said.

Reiterating his admiration for the actor, Cherian remarked,

“Are there not other talented artists in Kerala as well? Premkumar has travelled with us and continues to do so. He has received due recognition and has served the academy well. When his term ended, a new team was appointed.”

Premkumar had earlier expressed his disappointment, stating that he was neither informed about the appointment of sound designer Resul Pookutty as the new Chairman nor invited to the handover.

“They could have at least told me a new chairman was being appointed or informed me about the takeover. Neither happened, and yes, it does hurt. After all, I’m human. Still, I hold no complaints or resentment toward anyone,” he said.

The controversy erupted after reports that Premkumar’s remarks about the Asha workers’ protest at a recent meeting of cultural institution heads had led to his removal.