THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Writer V. J. James bagged this year’s Vayalar Rama Varma Literary Award for the novel ‘Nireeshwaran’. The award includes a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh, a sculpture designed by Kanayi Kunhiraman and a felicitation letter. A jury headed by writer Perumbadavam Sreedharan announced the award.

Perumbadavam said the decision was taken unanimously. He said this in relation to M.K. Sanu’s resignation. Perumbadavam added that Sanu’s resignation was due to health issues.

Meanwhile, writer Prof. M. K. Sanu, harshly criticised the award selection process. He said that resignation was due to external pressure to choose an undeserving work for the award.