Mon Dec 15 08:24:34 UTC 2025: Film Director and CPI(M) Leader Faces Arrest After Allegations of Sexual Harassment
Thiruvananthapuram, December 15, 2025 – Noted film director and Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] leader, P.T. Kunju Muhammed, is facing potential arrest after the Kerala police opposed his anticipatory bail application in a case concerning allegations of outraging the modesty of a woman filmmaker. The case stems from an incident on November 6th where Muhammed allegedly invited the woman to his hotel suite in Thiruvananthapuram, under the guise of discussing film selections for the ongoing 30th International Film Festival of Kerala, which he chaired.
According to the police, led by Assistant Commissioner Stuart Keeler, Muhammed’s actions forced the “survivor” to flee his room. The woman filed a complaint with the Chief Minister’s Office on November 26th, which was then forwarded to the State Police Chief for investigation. On December 2nd, Muhammed was charged with offences including outraging a woman’s modesty, illegal detention, intimidation, and trespass under the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS).
Police have presented CCTV footage from the hotel showing the woman entering Muhammed’s suite and leaving hurriedly. The prosecution is arguing for judicial remand to allow for further investigation, including examining private communications between Muhammed and the alleged victim. They contend that granting anticipatory bail could lead to witness tampering and destruction of evidence.
Muhammed has denied the allegations, suggesting a possible misunderstanding of his actions and offering a public apology. The Kerala State Chalachithra Academy, where the woman filmmaker also filed a complaint, has promised support for the complainant. The case has sparked significant debate, particularly within the film industry and political circles in Kerala.
First Piper 