Bengali Actress Accuses Malayalam Director Ranjith of Misconduct, Sparking Political and Public Back

A Bengali actress has accused prominent Malayalam film director and Kerala Chalachitra Academy Chairman Ranjith of misconduct, intensifying scrutiny on the Pinarayi Vijayan government over its alleged inaction regarding the Justice Hema Committee report. The report had exposed instances of harassment and exploitation of women within the Malayalam film industry, prompting calls for accountability.

Ranjith has denied the allegations, claiming he is the “real victim” in the situation. The CPI, a key ally of the ruling Left Democratic Front (LDF), has joined calls for a thorough investigation into the claims made by Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra. She has recounted an incident from years ago, which resurfaced in light of the Hema Committee's findings.

Despite mounting pressure for Ranjith to resign from his position as Academy Chairman, the government has yet to take definitive action. Youth Congress state vice-president Abin Varkey has filed a formal complaint with the police chief demanding action against Ranjith. Protests have erupted across the state against Ranjith and Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan.

Mitra detailed her experience to PTI in Kolkata, saying, “The person concerned (Ranjith) is a big name in Malayalam film industry and a national award winning director. I went to his residence to discuss an upcoming film project and I did not like his behaviour. He made certain advances subtly and I felt uncomfortable while we were discussing the script.” She emphasized that she had made her disapproval clear and left the residence the following day.

Mitra also expressed concern about whether other female actors in the industry had faced similar situations, suggesting that Ranjith’s influence might have silenced them. She stressed that women should have the courage to speak out against harassment and hoped for a reduction in such misconduct.

In Kerala, calls for Ranjith to step down have gained traction, with several figures, including filmmaker Dr. Biju, voicing their opposition. The Congress party has urged Ranjith’s resignation, while the BJP has stated he lacks the moral authority to continue in his role.

CPI national leader Annie Raja has called for an investigation into Mitra's allegations and suggested Ranjith be removed from his position during the inquiry. Minister Saji Cheriyan has promised that the government will not shield anyone found guilty, stating, “If the allegations against Ranjith were proved, action would surely be taken against him.”

Cheriyan added that no action could be taken based solely on allegations and stressed the need for a formal complaint to proceed with legal steps. Health Minister Veena George and Higher Education Minister R Bindhu have both indicated support for providing facilities and taking action based on the findings of the case.

Women’s Commission chairperson P Sathidevi stated that Ranjith should step down if the allegations are substantiated. Opposition leader V D Satheesan, recognizing Ranjith’s contributions to the industry, urged him to resign from his academy role “as a friend and as a brother.”

BJP state chief K Surendran has criticized both Cheriyan and Ranjith, demanding their resignations. Youth Congress activists have staged protests outside a resort in Meppadi where Ranjith was staying and marched to Cheriyan’s official residence, calling for his resignation as well.