Kochi: Kerala Cultural Minister Saji Cherian announced that no case will be filed against director Ranjith regarding the harassment allegations made by Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra.

Cherian explained that the government cannot proceed with registering a case until a formal written complaint is received. He asserted that the government could not register cases solely based on the Hema Committee Report. 

“I also learned about the allegations against Ranjith through the media. He has already responded to it. If the person has a formal complaint, she should come forward with it in writing. Once a written complaint is received, the government will take legal action,” Cherian said.

Cherian emphasized that he cannot determine the truth of the allegations without a thorough investigation, especially since Ranjith has entirely denied it. The Chief Minister has stated that if a written complaint against Ranjith is submitted, strong action will be taken, he added.

Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra made serious allegations against prominent Malayalam film director Ranjith on Friday. Following this, many demanded Ranjith step down as Kerala State Chalachitra Academy chairman. While confirming that Sreelekha attended the auditions for his movie ‘Paleri Manikyam’, which stars Mammootty in the lead role, Ranjith, in an interview with a news channel, denied any wrongdoing on his part.

Mitra, who was initially involved in the production of the 2009–10 film Paleri Manikyam, claimed that Ranjith behaved inappropriately during the shoot, leaving her fearful and distressed.

According to reports, Mitra revealed that she was intimidated by Ranjith’s actions, which led her to feel unsafe spending the night at the hotel where she was staying. “I lodged a complaint about the incident with documentary director Joshi. However, no one followed up on the complaint, and no action was taken,” Mitra said.

The actress also alleged that her objections to Ranjith’s behavior resulted in her being denied opportunities in Paleri Manikyam and other Malayalam films. She reported that she was left without money for her return journey and had to travel home alone the next day.