Kochi, 21 June (H.S.):The entire executive committee of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) resigned on Sunday following heated exchanges and growing dissent during the organisation’s General Body meeting in Kochi.

The 13-member committee, led by president Shweta Menon and general secretary Kuku Parameswaran, stepped down before completing a year in office. The resignations came after sections of the membership raised serious objections to the functioning of the committee and reportedly moved a no-confidence motion.

In a dramatic development during the meeting, Shweta Menon took to the stage and announced her willingness to resign. With the executive committee stepping down, an ad hoc committee is expected to oversee the organisation’s affairs until a new leadership is elected.

Addressing members, Shweta denied allegations that she had taken decisions favouring either the BJP or the Congress. She also rejected claims that she had any role in selecting or supporting political candidates from within the film industry, describing such accusations as baseless.

The meeting witnessed intense arguments among members, with several prominent actors questioning the annual report and financial statements presented by General Secretary Kuku Parameswaran. Senior members including Siddique, Baburaj and Idavela Babu reportedly refused to approve the report, alleging a lack of clarity in the income and expenditure accounts.

Veteran actor and writer Renji Panicker also said the report could not be accepted in its present form due to discrepancies in the accounts. In response, Shweta Menon sought 45 days to examine the issues raised and provide clarifications.

As tensions escalated, Kerala Minister and actor K.B. Ganesh Kumar urged former AMMA president Mohanlal to clearly state his position on the controversy. Speaking emotionally, Mohanlal assured members that despite personal differences, no one would be allowed to destroy the organisation.

Actor Yamuna Rani expressed concern over AMMA’s public image, saying the organisation’s reputation had been damaged largely by internal conflicts and public accusations among members. She added that ordinary artists who depend solely on acting for a livelihood were being unfairly affected.

Notably, most younger actors were absent from the General Body meeting.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman