Mammootty faces backlash from Kerala Left cadres over BJP interactions
Sections of CPI(M) supporters are demanding the actor resign as chairman of Kairali TV following his recent meetings with BJP leaders.
Malayalam actor Mammootty is facing online criticism from sections of CPI(M) cadres and Left sympathisers in Kerala, according to The Federal. Some supporters have demanded he resign from his position as chairman of the party-backed Kairali TV channel.
The friction follows the actor's recent interactions with BJP figures, including a visit to the Thrissur residence of BJP leader B Gopalakrishnan to bless his daughter. Critics have also noted his visit to the Statue of Unity in Gujarat and photographs taken with BJP leaders during the National Film Awards ceremony.
The controversy follows an earlier incident in Wayanad where Mammootty asked CPI(M) Wayanad district secretary K Rafeeq to step aside during a visit to a rehabilitation township. While Rafeeq and the actor later reconciled and former Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan apologised for the online abuse, some anger among cyber supporters remained.
Some critics have linked these appearances to speculation about a political shift, noting the actor recently received his fourth National Film Award. However, no evidence exists to show that his personal interactions or national honours represent a change in his political alignment.
Senior CPI(M) leader Thomas Isaac defended the actor against online attacks. The CPI(M) leadership has also formally rejected claims that his personal friendships constitute a political realignment.