THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: It is not uncommon for controversy to arise in the announcement of a state film award. But this time the controversy is not about the award announcement but about the award distribution. In the wake of Covid spread, the winners took the awards off the table without directly receiving them from the Chief Minister. The move has drawn criticism including many in the film industry as well. Congress leader PT Thomas MLA also criticized the Chief Minister in strong language.

In a post on Facebook, PT Thomas said that Pinarayi, who stood there wearing a mask and gloves, showed a 'take it and leave if you want' attitude towards the artists. Sharing Kim Jong Un's picture and Pinarayi Vijayan's picture, Thomas alleged that Pinarayi Vijayan has an elite class syndrome and showcased untouchability and treated the artists like slaves.