In a recent development, the Thiruvananthapuram City Police have decided not to proceed with a case against acclaimed filmmaker Adoor Gopalakrishnan over his comments regarding State funding for debutant filmmakers from SC/ST and women’s categories. The decision follows a legal review by the district public prosecutor, who found “no legal ground” for such a case under the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
The controversy erupted after social activist Dinu Veyil lodged a complaint against Gopalakrishnan, alleging that his comments were derogatory and could be interpreted as an attempt to undermine the SC/ST Act. However, the district public prosecutor’s office found no substantial evidence to support such claims, stating that the director’s remarks did not constitute a violation of the Act.
This decision has been met with mixed reactions from various quarters. While some have hailed it as a victory for freedom of speech and expression, others have expressed disappointment, arguing that Gopalakrishnan’s comments were insensitive and harmful.
The State Government has not issued any official statement on the matter as of now. Meanwhile, Adoor Gopalakrishnan, in a statement to the press, reiterated his stance, stating that he was only expressing his views on the state of the film industry and had no intention to offend or undermine any community.
The case has once again brought the issue of freedom of speech and expression into focus, with many questioning the boundaries within which such discourse should be allowed in a democratic society. As the debate continues, the State Government is expected to address the concerns raised by various stakeholders.
