In a significant development, three individuals, including two prominent Malayalam film directors, Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamsa, were arrested early Sunday morning for possessing hybrid ganja at a flat in Ernakulam. The arrested individuals were later released on station bail after the seizure of 1.63 grams of the substance, according to Excise officials.
The incident occurred when a special squad from the Excise Department, acting on a tip-off, raided the flat of cinematographer Sameer Thahir around 2:00 am. Rahman and Hamsa, known for their contributions to Malayalam cinema, were found in possession of the narcotic. They were accompanied by their friend, Shalif Mohammed, who was also arrested. A case was registered under various sections of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act.
In the aftermath of the arrests, the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA) Directors’ Union swiftly took action. The union suspended Rahman and Hamsa from the body, citing the gravity of the incident. A statement from FEFKA Directors’ Union, signed by President Renji Panickar and General Secretary G S Vijayan, assured that further steps would be taken after reviewing the progress of the ongoing investigation.
“We will examine the ongoing investigation closely and take appropriate action once more information is available,” the statement read.
Investigation Underway
According to Excise Department sources, a detailed probe has been launched to determine the source of the drugs. T M Maju, the Excise Deputy Commissioner of Ernakulam, mentioned that Sameer Thahir, the cinematographer who rented the flat, would also be summoned for questioning in connection with the case. Authorities suspect that Thahir may have allowed the filmmakers to use his flat for consuming drugs.
“If Thahir provided the space for these filmmakers to consume drugs, he will also be questioned,” Maju stated, further highlighting the department’s commitment to curbing the drug menace in the region. The Excise Department emphasized that it has full backing from the government in its anti-drug operations.
Background of the Filmmakers
Khalid Rahman is renowned for directing “Anuraga Karikkinvellam” and “Unda”, both of which were well-received by audiences. His latest film, “Alappuzha Gymkhana,” is currently running in theatres. Meanwhile, Ashraf Hamsa has directed films such as “Bheemante Vazhi” and is recognized for his unique filmmaking style in the Malayalam industry.
This incident comes just days after actor Shine Tom Chacko was arrested in a separate drug-related case, further raising concerns about the prevalence of drug use in the Malayalam film industry.
Political Reactions
The arrests have sparked reactions from political leaders. V D Satheesan, the opposition leader of Kerala, expressed concern over the growing drug consumption issue in the film industry. He called for organizations like FEFKA and AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Artists) to take a stronger stance against individuals in the industry involved in drug consumption or distribution.
“Celebrities, who serve as role models to young people, should not be drug consumers. The government needs to pay more attention to enforcing anti-drug laws and must focus on apprehending those who supply these substances, not just those who consume them,” Satheesan said.
He also criticized the current system of releasing drug offenders on bail, stressing the importance of more stringent measures to tackle the issue.
Ongoing Developments
The authorities have assured that the investigation is ongoing, and further developments are expected in the coming days. Meanwhile, the film industry and the public await further details on the involvement of Sameer Thahir and others in this matter.
With the issue of drug consumption continuing to make headlines in Kerala’s film industry, many hope that the authorities’ actions will serve as a deterrent to others and promote a safer, drug-free environment for filmmakers and audiences alike.
Sources By Agencies
