Follow TNM’s WhatsApp channel for news updates and story links.
The Kerala Police have reportedly received legal advice indicating that no case can be registered against acclaimed filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan over his recent comments regarding State funding for debutant filmmakers from SC/ST and women’s categories.
The legal opinion, sought from the district public prosecutor following a complaint by social activist Dinu Veyil, states that the director’s remarks do not constitute a violation under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (Law and Order), Thiruvananthapuram City, Nakul Rajendra Deshmukh confirmed that the legal review found “no legal ground” for proceeding with a case.
According to police sources, the prosecutor noted that Gopalakrishnan’s comments were made during a policy discussion at the Kerala Film Policy Conclave and did not target any individual or community. The statement, the opinion said, was part of a broader suggestion that aspiring filmmakers from marginalised communities undergo intensive training before receiving substantial government grants.
In his complaint, Dinu had alleged that the filmmaker’s observations carried caste prejudice and implied that people from SC/ST communities are susceptible to corruption. He urged the police to invoke provisions of the SC/ST Act.
The filmmaker, while speaking at the conclave, had expressed concern over the Rs 1.5 crore funding for SC/ST filmmakers and suggested that beneficiaries receive training to ensure better outcomes. “While the intention is good, such large sums without proper training could lead to corruption,” Gopalakrishnan had said, adding that his remarks were based on over six decades of experience in the industry.
Despite his clarification that there was no intent to insult or generalise, the comments drew criticism from political and social quarters. Several leaders, including Ministers and CPI(M) functionaries, have spoken out on the issue.
In addition, women’s organisations have petitioned the Kerala Women’s Commission, alleging that Gopalakrishnan's remarks reflected bias against women filmmakers. The Kerala State SC/ST Welfare Commission has also sought a report from the local police.