Kochi, 01 April (H.S.):

Malayalam film director Ranjith has been suspended from key industry bodies under the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFSKA) following his arrest in connection with a sexual assault complaint. The action marks a significant development in the case, which has sent shockwaves across the Malayalam film industry.

According to official statements, Ranjith has been suspended from both the FEFKA Directors’ Union and the FEFKAWriters’ Union. FEFKA Directors’ Union president Ranji Panicker and general secretary G S Vijayan confirmed that the filmmaker has been removed from primary membership. Shortly thereafter, the Writers’ Union also announced his expulsion, with president Balachandran Chullikkad and general secretary Benny P Nayarambalam issuing a joint statement.

Earlier, FEFKA general secretary B Unnikrishnan had indicated that strict action would be taken against Ranjith in light of the allegations.

Meanwhile, Ranjith has been remanded to 14 days in judicial custody and is currently lodged at the Ernakulam Sub Jail. Police produced him before a magistrate at the judge’s residence in Kochi late at night.

His legal counsel has confirmed that a bail application has been filed. The director was taken into custody from Thodupuzha and brought to Kochi overnight. Following complaints of health issues, he was admitted to Ernakulam General Hospital, where doctors examined him the next morning and reported no serious concerns.

The case continues to unfold, with both legal proceedings and industry-level actions progressing simultaneously.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman