Mohanlal Was a Good Man, Says Ex AMMA Member KB Ganesh Kumar: 'Don't Spoil This Association...'

Kerala Minister and actor KB Ganesh Kumar has expressed deep disappointment following the resignation of veteran actor Mohanlal from the executive committee of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA). The executive committee, which Mohanlal led as president, was dissolved on August 27, 2024, amid growing allegations of sexual assault and misbehaviour against several of its members.

The decision to disband the committee came after an emergency online meeting where all 17 members, including Mohanlal, submitted their resignations. The move follows the release of the Hema Committee report, which highlighted the sexual misconduct allegations within the association. Despite being newly elected in June 2024 with a tenure extending to 2027, the committee members chose to step down, acknowledging their moral responsibility.

In a statement, KB Ganesh Kumar, who has been a longstanding member of AMMA, voiced his concerns. “It’s very sad. We cannot afford this. Mohanlal was a good man, a strong president. Don’t spoil this association. It’s my request to the media and public. This association is very helpful to the poor people in the film industry. They are not even in a condition to buy medicines. Don’t do this,” he pleaded.

Kumar’s comments reflect the sentiment of many within the Malayalam film industry, who view AMMA as a crucial support system for struggling artists. He emphasised that while the allegations against the governing body members are serious and need to be addressed, the association itself remains vital for the welfare of its members.

The executive committee, in its statement to the media, echoed Kumar’s sentiments, acknowledging the need for accountability while also emphasising the importance of continuity. “Following the release of the Hema Committee report and the subsequent sexual allegations faced by certain office bearers within the executive committee of AMMA, the current executive committee of AMMA, taking into consideration its moral responsibility, is stepping down,” the statement read.

The general body of AMMA is expected to convene in two months to elect a new governing body. Until then, the existing leadership will continue on an ad-hoc basis to ensure the distribution of welfare measures to members and the coordination of office matters. The statement concluded with a call for renewal and strength, expressing hope that the new leadership would guide AMMA towards a better future.