Malayalam actors and crew to sign ‘no drug use’ affidavit with remuneration contract during shoots, new rules to implement soon

Malayalam actors to sign a no drug contract

The Malayalam film industry has recently been entangled in controversy after actors like Shine Tom Chacko and filmmakers Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza were accused of drug use on set. However, the Kerala Film Producers Association (KFPA) is now taking strict action to ensure a drug-free Mollywood.

According to the Onmanorama report, the cast and crew of Mollywood will have to sign a ‘no drugs’ affidavit along with their remuneration contract. The KFPA has made it mandatory for the actors as well as the technicians to sign a ‘no drugs’ affidavit along with their remuneration contract.

The reports suggested that the new rule will be implemented on June 26, International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The affidavits aim to prevent the signee from taking drugs at the filming location, along with their accommodations.

The KPFA has reached out to FEFKA and AMMA to collaborate on an initiative requiring cast and crew to sign an affidavit, holding them accountable for any violations or losses to producers. FEFKA has reportedly agreed, while AMMA will discuss it in their meeting by June 24.

Also Read: Malayalam actor Shine Tom Chacko admitted to rehab centre amidst interrogation in drug abuse case

The KFPA’s decision came after actor Shine Tom Chacko was arrested in April for alleged drug use. He fled from the hotel when the police knocked on his door. He was later released on bail and issued an apology.

Additionally, Shine’s co-star Vincy Aloshious also accused him of misbehaviour on set after taking drugs. However, he was not the only one who landed in trouble for drug use. Filmmakers Khalid Rahman and Ashraf Hamza were also arrested for possession of drugs in the same month.

Producer Haseeb Malabar accused Sreenath Bhasi of demanding ‘stuff’ like cannabis while shooting a film. Besides this, a report surfaced in May accusing the producers of setting aside budgets to provide drugs to stars during shooting.