'Will screen all 19 films banned by central govt'; Minister Saji Cherian intervenes to solve IFFK crisis

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Minister Saji Cherian instructed the academy to screen all 19 films that were denied approval by the central government in the ongoing International Film Festival of Kerala. The minister directed the Chalachitra Academy to screen all the films without any hindrance. The minister also called the central government’s attitude undemocratic and authoritarian.

“When a similar crisis at the Kolkata festival arose, Mamata Banerjee had directed that all films be screened. The government instructed the academy chairman to take a similar stand. Only 15 films were to be screened at the IFFK. Earlier, there were 19 films, but four were given permission today.” Minister Saji Cherian instructed Chalachitra Academy chairman Resul Pookutty and secretary to take necessary steps to screen all films without interruption as per the pre-scheduled schedule.

“The central government adopted an approach to topple the progressive art and cultural tradition of Kerala. An anti-democratic approach that destroys the tradition and progressive nature of the festival cannot be accepted. We will continue to give total solidarity for artistic expressions. The films that were denied screening by the central government are celebrated movies, admired by film lovers. It is the right of the delegates to watch these films.” The minister added.