Thiruvananthapuram, February 14 – In a revealing social media post, popular actor and former Chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, Prem Kumar, spoke out on Saturday about the abrupt and unprofessional manner in which he was removed from his position last year.
His statement has sparked a new debate about the differential approach taken by the CPI-M government, led by Pinarayi Vijayan, towards cultural leaders.
Prem Kumar described how he was removed in October last year without any prior notice or formal communication, just a day before the announcement of the State Film Awards.
Despite overseeing some of the Academy's busiest and most high-profile responsibilities, including the 30th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), jury deliberations for the State Film Awards, and numerous policy and organizational initiatives, Prem Kumar was abruptly dismissed.
"I wasn't even given a chance to thank my colleagues or communicate with anyone before being removed," wrote the former Chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, expressing his shock at the suddenness of the decision.
His social media post highlights the stark contrast in how dissent and criticism are handled.
K. Satchidanandan, the acclaimed poet and Chairman of the Kerala Sahitya Akademi, repeatedly criticized the Kerala government and even opposed the extension of his term in office early this week.
Yet, despite his outspoken stance, he continues to hold his position long after his official tenure expired.
Prem Kumar described this as "a clear case of double standards or even superhuman privilege," noting that his own dedicated, honest, and hands-on service was discarded overnight.
The actor also reflected on his principled interventions during cultural programs, including urging recognition for ASHA workers protesting outside the Secretariat while lakhs were being spent on international cultural conclaves.
He believes these actions may have contributed to his removal.
Prem Kumar's post has reignited discussion about fairness, transparency, and political influence in Kerala's cultural institutions.
It underscores the vulnerability of even celebrated personalities who demonstrate integrity, while others who act with similar boldness face no repercussions.
The episode has become a touchstone for debates on merit, accountability, and the treatment of dissenting voices under the current Kerala administration.