In a recent development, the Kerala High Court has dismissed an appeal put forth by acclaimed Malayalam film director Lijeesh MJ. The appeal contested the Kerala State Film Awards for the year 2022, an announcement made by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy on July 21.
Lijeesh MJ's appeal was centered on challenging a prior ruling from a single-judge, who had already rejected the case. The single-judge had ruled that the plea lacked substantial evidence to substantiate allegations of nepotism and bias.
On the current occasion, a division bench composed of Chief Justice AJ Desai and Justice VG Arun echoed similar sentiments as they dismissed the appeal. The bench emphasized that the original ruling had been sound, asserting, "We find no fault in the single judge's decision. It's important to underline that the film producer did not corroborate the appellant's claims. Additionally, it's noteworthy that two key jury members have not provided affidavits. Therefore, the appeal is dismissed," the High Court clarified.
Further undermining Lijeesh MJ's stance, the division bench highlighted that his film, 'Aakaashathinu Thazhe,' had not even secured a spot in the preliminary jury's selection for the Kerala State Award.
In his appeal, Lijeesh MJ had argued that the single-judge had prematurely rejected his plea, disregarding pertinent facts, circumstances, and legal aspects germane to his case. He maintained that his movie's lack of recognition was the result of nepotism and bias exercised by the jury.
Drawing attention to a parallel instance, the director pointed out similar allegations raised by another filmmaker, Vinayan. Vinayan had asserted that he possessed evidence implicating jury members of the State Awards, substantiating claims of bias and nepotism.
Lijeesh MJ also implored the Court to issue directives to the State government and the Kerala State Police Chief, urging them to initiate an inquiry and appropriate action against fellow film director Ranjith Balakrishnan. Balakrishnan presently holds the position of chairperson at the Kerala Chalachitra Academy.
Advocates Prabhu KN, Manumon A, Rebin Vincent Gralan, and Dinesh G Warrier represented the director in this legal endeavor.
TAGS: Kerala High Court appeal Lijeesh MJ Malayalam film director State Film Awards 2022 Kerala State Chalachitra Academy single-judge nepotism bias Chief Justice AJ Desai Justice VG Arun division bench preliminary jury 'Aakaashathinu Thazhe' allegations evidence Vinayan film director Ranjith Balakrishnan Kerala Chalachitra Academy State government Kerala State Police Chief advocates Prabhu KN Manumon A Rebin Vincent Gralan Dinesh G Warrier.
