Following the Ernakulam Sub Court’s dismissal of producer Sandra Thomas’ petition challenging the rejection of her nomination for the Kerala Film Producers Association (KFPA) elections, senior members of the organisation have issued strong responses.

According to an online report by Reporter TV, KFPA's secretary B Rakesh said the dismissal of all three of Sandra’s petitions proved her allegations were without merit. Vice president G Suresh Kumar stated that the nomination was rejected in accordance with the association’s by-laws and that all procedures had been followed as per the rules. Treasurer Listin Stephen alleged that Sandra’s accusations were driven by intolerance, adding that she might now claim even the court had lied.

Sandra had sought to contest for the posts of president and treasurer. For the presidency, the KFPA’s rules require at least three films to be produced under the candidate’s own banner. Sandra had submitted two films under Sandra Thomas Productions, Little Hearts and Nalla Nilavulla Rathri, and one made under her earlier partnership with Friday Film House. The returning officer ruled the latter ineligible for individual credit.

Reacting to the verdict, Sandra described it on social media as “unexpected and disappointing” and said she would consult legal experts before deciding her next move. The court’s decision ends her immediate bid for a leadership role in the KFPA, whose elections are scheduled for August 14.