Kerala Culture Minister Reaffirms Democratic Freedom for Cultural Activists
In a significant statement, Kerala Culture Minister Saji Cherian has emphasized that the government fully recognizes the right of cultural activists working in collaboration with government institutions to express their independent opinions. This declaration comes amid discussions surrounding recent changes in the leadership of the Chalachitra Academy.
Minister Clarifies Position on Cultural Expression
Speaking to reporters, Minister Cherian stated, "We are not under any obligation that they should always agree with the positions of the government or the LDF that leads them." He further explained that prominent cultural leaders are appointed as office-bearers of various institutions by upholding this democratic freedom. This was in response to statements made by former Chalachitra Academy vice-chairman Premkumar.
The minister clarified that the change in the office-bearers of the Chalachitra Academy was not due to their positions or opinions. "The government fully recognizes the right of cultural activists working with government systems to express their independent opinions. We have no obligation for these opinions to always align with the positions of the government or the ruling LDF," he reiterated.
Appointment Process and Administrative Changes
Cherian added that it is with this democratic freedom in mind that prominent cultural leaders are appointed to key roles. "Therefore, the government views the opinions of both K Satchidanandan and Premkumar as personal stances. The government does not have a policy of sidelining anyone based on such expressions."
Regarding the leadership transition at the Chalachitra Academy, the minister said, "The change in the leadership of the Academy was not due to his stand or expressions. His work as VC and later as acting chairman, after Ranjith stepped down, was exemplary and satisfactory." However, with the completion of the Academy's governing body's term, a new committee was naturally selected.
Resul Pookutty, a renowned figure in Indian cinema, has taken over as the new chairman. This appointment was congratulated and accepted by Premkumar. Cherian noted, "Replacing one committee with another after the term ends is merely an administrative process, not a removal or dismissal of him. It seems there was a misunderstanding on his part."
Premkumar's Concerns and Response
Actor Premkumar had earlier stated that his removal from the position of chairman for supporting the ASHA workers' strike was unjust. He mentioned to the media that he was not treated with basic courtesy and was not given a respectful farewell. Premkumar added that while he cannot be compared to poet Satchidanandan, there was a noticeable difference in how the chairpersons of the film academy and literary academy, both significant cultural institutions in Kerala, were treated.
This situation highlights ongoing discussions about the relationship between cultural activists and government bodies in Kerala, with the minister's statements aiming to reassure the cultural community of their freedom to express diverse viewpoints without fear of reprisal.
