Ranjith likely to RESIGN as chairman of Kerala Academy post sexual harassment allegations

New Delhi: Ace Malayalam film director and chairman of government-run Kerala Chalachitra Academy Ranjith, who was accused of allegedly misbehaving with Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra in 2009, is likely to step down as the chairman of Kerala Chalachitra Academy’, amidst mounting pressure from within the CPM and its Allies following the serious allegations of sexual harassment.
Ranjith to resign post sexual harassment allegations?
As per News9 bureau, director Ranjith will likely resign from his position as the chairman of the Kerala halachitra Academy amid mounting protests calling for his removal. As per the sources, the Department of Culture has requested his resignation. Additionally, visuals have surfaced showing that the government number plate has been removed from his official vehicle.
What Sreelakha allege?
Talking to the media, Sreelekha narrated the incident in connection with Ranjith’s film, Paleri Manikyam: Oru Pathirakolapathakathinte Katha (2009). Referring to her meeting with Ranjith, the actress said, “He was on a phone call. There were a lot of people. He was on the phone with the cinematographer with whom I had worked. Asking me whether I want to talk to him (the cinematographer), he (Ranjith) called me to another room.”
She further added, “The bedroom was dark and there was a balcony. When I talked to the cinematographer over the phone, he (Ranjith) was standing beside me. He was playing with my bangles and touching my skin. We women have the sixth sense. I felt uncomfortable, but I was trying to give him the benefit of doubt. I thought I was overthinking and thought he wanted to see my bangles. I was not feeling ok with him. The room was dark. After realising that I was not reacting or taking back my hand, he tried to play with my neck and hair. Then, I excused myself and left the room. This was not shocking, but I know how the film industry works by and large. There are good and bad people.”
Ranjith denied allegations
Denying the allegations, Ranjith said, “Filmmaker Shankar Ramakrishnan and others were present at the flat. The alleged incident did not take place. Her performance was not satisfactory and it was communicated to her. There is an ulterior agenda behind raising this controversy at this moment. If she takes any legal step, it would be countered in the same manner.”