Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra levels misconduct allegations against Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith; claims he made ‘advances subtly’

The filmmaker, however, has vehemently denied Mitra's allegations, claiming that he is the ‘real victim’ in the case.

Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra has levelled serious allegations of misconduct against Malayalam filmmaker and chairman of the state-run Kerala Chalachitra Academy, Ranjith. This new development has cast a long shadow over the Pinarayi Vijayan government, which is already facing intense scrutiny over its alleged inaction on the Justice Hema Committee report.

Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra levels misconduct allegations against Malayalam filmmaker Ranjith; claims he made ‘advances subtly’

The Justice Hema Committee report, released earlier this year, had exposed instances of harassment and exploitation of women in the Malayalam cinema industry, sparking widespread outrage and calls for accountability. Now, Mitra's accusations have reignited the debate and placed the government in a precarious position.

Speaking to PTI in Kolkata, Sreelekha Mitra recalled a years-old incident when she met Ranjith to discuss a potential film project. She claimed that during the meeting, the director made certain ‘advances subtly’ that made her feel uncomfortable. Mitra said she immediately expressed her disapproval and decided not to proceed with the project. “I don't know if he has treated other female actors in the film industry in the same way,” Mitra added, suggesting that Ranjith's power and influence might have prevented others from speaking out.

The filmmaker, however, has vehemently denied Mitra's allegations, claiming that he is the ‘real victim’ in the case. This has led to a war of words between the two parties, with each side presenting their version of events.

The allegations have sent shockwaves through the Malayalam film industry, with many demanding Ranjith's resignation as chairman of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy. Several prominent figures have publicly condemned his actions and called for his removal.

The Kerala government, under pressure from all sides, has assured that it will take appropriate action if the allegations against Ranjith are proven. However, the opposition has accused the government of being slow to act and of protecting its allies.