Searches Conducted in Multiple States Including Kerala and Tamil Nadu
Kochi/New Delhi, April 4 – The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday conducted raids at multiple locations connected to Kerala-based businessman and film producer Gokulam Gopalan, in connection with alleged violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) amounting to ₹1,000 crore.According to official sources, the searches were carried out at five premises across different states, including Kochi (Kerala) and Chennai (Tamil Nadu). The action targets Sree Gopalan Chit and Finance Co Ltd, owned by Gopalan, over alleged foreign exchange violations involving certain Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and unauthorized financial transactions.
Possible Money Laundering Probe Also on the Radar
Sources further indicated that the ED is evaluating several complaints of cheating registered against Gopalan’s company, which could potentially trigger a separate investigation under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).Film Connection: ‘L2: Empuraan’ Controversy Grows
The crackdown comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding the film ‘L2: Empuraan’, of which Gopalan is a co-producer. Released on March 27, the movie is the sequel to the hit political thriller ‘Lucifer’ and has been launched in Malayalam, Tamil, Kannada, and Telugu.Produced under the banners of Aashirvad Cinemas, Sree Gokulam Movies, and Lyca Productions, the film has drawn attention not only for its high production value—reportedly among the most expensive in Malayalam cinema—but also for its alleged political undertones. The film has stirred debate for its criticism of right-wing politics and a subtle reference to the 2002 Gujarat riots.
Production Team and Cast
The movie is directed by actor-filmmaker Prithviraj Sukumaran, who also stars in the film alongside Mohanlal, Manju Warrier, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Tovino Thomas, Indrajith Sukumaran, Jerome Flynn, and Eriq Ebouaney. The script is penned by Murali Gopy.Scene Cuts After Backlash
Following the backlash, Mohanlal expressed regret and assured that the contentious portions would be edited out. Co-producer Antony Perumbavoor confirmed earlier this month that over two minutes of scenes have already been removed from the film to mitigate the controversy.The ED’s action adds a fresh twist to the ongoing saga surrounding 'L2: Empuraan', blending the worlds of cinema, finance, and politics in a developing story that is sure to remain under the spotlight.
