B Unnikrishnan withdraws resignation, to remain Fefka general secretary

Kochi: Following hours of uncertainty, Film Employees Federation of Kerala (Fefka) general secretary B Unnikrishnan on Friday withdrew his resignation. The decision came after an emergency general council meeting of the apex body of 21-film related trade unions was held in Kochi. During the meeting, members unanimously urged him to remain at the helm. The council, led by veteran director and Fefka president Sibi Malayil, refused to accept the resignation. While Malayil himself had previously expressed a wish to step back, the general sentiment was that the current leadership's continuity is vital. The council, though, agreed to his demand for restructuring of duties. "The members agreed to relieve me of certain specific responsibilities. The redistribution of workload has made my continuation practically feasible, allowing me to focus on core strategic roles while delegating administrative tasks. I will act in accordance with the decision of the general council," he told reporters. Earlier, Unnikrishnan informed the organization of his intention to step down, citing personal reasons. He explained that his decision is spurred by a desire for personal time to pursue writing, travelling and teaching. He also indicated that it was time for a new generation of leadership to take charge after serving in the federation's top executive role for nearly 18 years. He conveyed the same to Malayail. However, the council asked both to continue in their present roles. Meanwhile, the meeting also touched upon the rise in production costs. Unnikrishnan criticized certain actors overstepping their professional boundaries. He specifically condemned the growing trend of actors involving themselves in the editing process and attempting to ‘ghost-direct' projects. "Actors must do their job and permit the director and his technicians to perform their tasks," Unnikrishnan stated, while referring to the recent controversy connected with the film ‘Sumati Valavu'. This outburst follows recent tensions over rising production costs and budget overruns, which he blamed on the ‘irrational' demands and lack of discipline among certain stars. "With no significant financial support from banks or the govt, producers are increasingly forced to rely on private moneylenders," Unnikrishnan said, adding that addressing these financial risks remains a top priority for Fefka's revised leadership agenda.