Overview

• On July 26, Sandra Thomas submitted nomination papers for KFPA president wearing a purdah to symbolise protest against male dominance and for personal safety.
• Her decision underscores ongoing criticism of the association’s silence over the Hema Committee report on harassment of women in Malayalam cinema.
• A court in December stayed her November 2024 expulsion, clearing the way for her candidacy in the August 14 polls.
• A Special Investigation Team filed chargesheets in April against four KFPA office-bearers for alleged sexual harassment and intimidation.
• KFPA vice president Suresh Kumar dismissed Thomas’s allegations as a publicity stunt and noted there is no bylaw barring accused members from contesting.