Sexual Assault FIR Lodged Against Veteran Director and Ex-MLA P.T. Kunju Muhammed in IFFK 2025 Controversy

Thiruvananthapuram- Authorities have filed a formal complaint against P.T. Kunju Muhammed, a prominent filmmaker and two-term independent lawmaker supported by the CPI(M), following allegations of misconduct toward a female jury panelist at the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) 2025.

According to the First Information Report (FIR) filed on Monday, the 77-year-old Muhammed, who chaired the jury, is accused of engaging in improper conduct with the woman during a screening event last month. The alleged incident reportedly occurred in a hotel room.

Muhammed has firmly rejected the claims, attributing them to a possible misunderstanding. "As someone dealing with various health challenges, I am ready to offer an apology if needed," he stated.

The complainant served on the jury tasked with curating films for the prestigious festival, set to kick off later this week. Her initial grievance was directed to Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, who forwarded it to the nearest police outpost. Officers subsequently recorded her testimony and inspected security camera recordings from the hotel as part of their ongoing investigation.

A seasoned politician, Muhammed secured victories as an independent candidate backed by the CPI(M) in the 1994 Guruvayoor bypoll and the 1996 state elections. Often viewed as a close ally of the party, he also co-founded the CPI(M)-affiliated Kairali TV network.

Before diving into politics and cinema, Muhammed earned his degree and spent a decade overseas as a high-level executive at a French multinational firm. His film journey began in 1978 as a producer on Aswathama, followed by his acting bow in Uppu. He went on to produce award-winning titles like Purushartham and Swaroopam, which earned state and national honors. As a director, his works Magrib and Garshom similarly garnered critical acclaim and multiple accolades.