AMMA imposes gag order ahead of controversial elections
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Kochi: With elections for new office bearers just days away, the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) has imposed a gag order, directing members to avoid discussing internal matters with the media until polling concludes on August 15.
This move follows a heated dispute between actors Ponnamma Babu and Mala Parvathy over the association’s finances. Election officials have warned of strict action against those who violate the directive. Sources indicate that senior actors, including Mohanlal and Mammootty, have expressed disappointment over the public disagreements.
Ponnamma Babu claimed that when former general secretary Idavela Babu resigned, AMMA’s account held only Rs 2 crore, which the current committee under Babu Raj has reportedly increased to over Rs 7.5 crore. Parvathy disputed this, stating the amount was over Rs 5 crore even after settling dues related to parking near AMMA’s headquarters, with additional funds arriving later.
The controversy has intensified amid allegations involving Shwetha Menon, a presidential candidate, who faces an obscenity case currently stayed by the Kerala High Court. Critics allege the case is a political smear tactic during the election.
Another candidate, Cuckoo Parameswaran, has filed a complaint with the State Police chief, accusing Babu Raj and his supporters of orchestrating a cyber harassment campaign against her related to the “memory card” controversy.
Parvathy further alleged that Babu Raj’s faction is collaborating with YouTubers to promote their narrative while ignoring critical issues such as police inquiries into the memory card case and charges against Shwetha Menon. She insisted, “If I stay silent, their version will prevail. This matter must be resolved by law enforcement. Shwetha and Cuckoo are not guilty—they are victims of an election-time mudslinging campaign.”
The polls on August 15 will see Shwetha Menon contesting against Devan for the presidency. Other key positions have multiple candidates, except for the joint secretary post, where Anziba Hasan has been elected unopposed.
With IANS inputs
