Renowned filmmaker Dr Biju has launched a scathing attack on the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy and the state government following a major controversy at the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK). The uproar stems from the Central Government's decision to deny screening permission for 19 films, including Palestinian works, at the prestigious festival.
A 'Dummy' Chairman and an Absent Leadership
In a strongly-worded Facebook post, Dr Biju did not mince words, directly targeting the leadership of the Chalachitra Academy. He pointedly referred to the current chairman, Oscar-winning sound designer Dr. Resul Pookutty, as a "dummy chairman." Dr Biju highlighted the chairman's conspicuous absence from the festival venue, questioning his commitment during a critical event.
He emphasised that the chairman plays a pivotal role in ensuring the smooth operation of IFFK. Dr Biju also noted a historic first: this is the only time in the festival's 30-year history that it is being conducted without both an Academy chairman and an artistic director present, raising serious concerns about administrative oversight.
Questioning the Permission Process and a 'Serious Lapse'
Dr Biju turned his focus to the procedural failure that led to the crisis. He explained the standard protocol: the Academy must submit the list of films requiring central clearance to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting at least one month in advance of the festival.
"No festival usually schedules films without permission," Dr Biju wrote. He demanded clarity on whether the list was submitted on time or if there was a delay from the Centre. His core question was why the festival organisers went ahead and scheduled the 19 films before securing the mandatory approvals, calling it a "highly unusual" and serious lapse in management.
Demand for Answers and the Chief Minister's Assurance
Dr Biju called for an authoritative explanation for the administrative failure. He ended his critique with a poignant question about the festival's legacy: "Where has the Kerala International Film Festival reached in its 30th year?"
Amid the criticism, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has stepped in, assuring the public and film fraternity that all the films denied permission by the Central Government will be screened. This assurance, however, does not address the procedural and leadership questions raised by Dr Biju.
The controversy has cast a shadow over the 28th edition of IFFK, sparking debates about artistic freedom, bureaucratic hurdles, and the competence of the festival's organising body.
