Kerala Ministers Slam National Film Award for 'The Kerala Story'

Kerala's political figures have voiced strong objections to the recent decision to award 'The Kerala Story' at the National Film Awards. Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian has alleged that the recognition is tied to a political agenda driven by the Sangh Parivar.

The film, directed by Sudipto Sen, won accolades for Best Director and Best Cinematography, amidst controversy over its depiction of women from Kerala being coerced for recruitment by IS. Cherian criticized the film as promoting societal division and called the award an act of favoritism.

Finance Minister K N Balagopal joined the criticism, labeling the film as a 'false campaign'. He accused the BJP and Sangh Parivar of maligning Kerala to exploit political gains. Balagopal insisted that cinema should not be politically misused, aligning his comments with other state leaders condemning the award decision.

(With inputs from agencies.)