Mammootty Faces Severe Cyberattack After CPM Leader Incident During Wayanad Visit
Renowned actor Mammootty found himself at the center of a major political and social media storm after expressing his displeasure during a private visit to a township for landslide survivors in Wayanad's Elstone Estate on Saturday. The controversy erupted when CPM Wayanad district secretary K Rafeeq repeatedly accompanied the actor during his walkthrough of the rehabilitation site.
The Incident That Sparked Controversy
On learning about Mammootty's visit to the township built for survivors of recent landslides, Rafeeq and several local party activists joined the actor as he walked around the area. Video footage shows Rafeeq asking the crowd to make way for the actor, but as he continued walking alongside him, Mammootty reportedly said, "Why are you always standing next to me? People will think I came here for you. Please move aside."
Though this remark was made during a brief private conversation with Rafeeq, it was captured on video and quickly went viral across social media platforms. The seemingly innocuous exchange soon escalated into a significant controversy with political ramifications.
Political Fallout and Cyberattacks
Several Left-aligned cyber handles launched severe criticism against Mammootty, arguing that insulting Rafeeq—who had been active in relief efforts—was inappropriate. The issue quickly transformed into a political row, with Congress leaders condemning what they described as a violent and brutal cyberattack on the actor.
Congress leader Cherian Philip defended Mammootty, stating that the actor had only objected when party leaders attempted to turn his humanitarian visit into a propaganda opportunity. Philip further explained that CPM's criticism stemmed from Mammootty's observation that the township in Wayanad was constructed using public funds contributed by the people of Kerala.
The controversy placed CPM in a delicate position, given that Rafeeq serves as a district secretary while Mammootty has maintained long-standing ties with party leaders, including his association with Kairali TV.
Political Leaders Weigh In
PWD minister P A Mohammed Riyas came to Rafeeq's defense, asserting that CPM district secretaries do not gatecrash events. He described Mammootty as someone who has consistently supported humanitarian initiatives throughout his career.
In an attempt to resolve the controversy, Rafeeq revealed that Mammootty had called him personally. He posted on Facebook that the actor's visit should be viewed positively, explaining that he happened to be at the site for another program and only intervened to manage the crowd so Mammootty wouldn't face inconvenience.
Rafeeq claimed that Mammootty had expressed concerns that such actions might be misinterpreted. He alleged that certain media outlets and right-wing social media groups had portrayed their private conversation as a personal insult, thereby escalating the controversy unnecessarily.
Efforts to Defuse the Situation
Meanwhile in Kochi, industries minister P Rajeeve attempted to calm the situation by highlighting the positive aspects of Mammootty's visit. "Kerala extends special thanks to him for visiting the township. Mammootty's desire to visit the township in Wayanad, despite his busy schedule, sets a great example for the world," he stated.
Rajeeve emphasized that Mammootty's visit brought greater visibility to the township project, noting that the actor spoke about Perumbalam Bridge, shared old memories, and discussed changes, inclusivity, and development. "His visit and words helped bring attention to Wayanad township and Perumbalam Bridge," the minister added while urging media outlets not to incite attacks based on isolated comments.
Rafeeq concluded by urging everyone to end the debate and refocus attention on the rehabilitation of families affected by the landslides, emphasizing that the primary concern should remain the welfare of the survivors rather than political controversies.
