Veteran producer G Suresh Kumar has strongly responded to L2: Empuraan producer Antony Perumbavoor’s recent social media post, which questioned the Kerala film strike call and comments on the budget of Empuraan. Suresh Kumar reiterated that the decision to go on strike from June 1 was not made unilaterally but was the result of extensive discussions with various film organisations. "As a person in a responsible position within the association and as someone who has been working in the organisation for a long time, I cannot make decisions alone. The decision to go on strike was made after thorough discussions with multiple organisations over a long period," Suresh Kumar stated.
Addressing Antony’s criticism, he added, "I am not a fool. I have been in the industry for 46 years. When Antony started watching films, I was already producing them. I am not in this industry to play jokes. Antony does not attend any of the association’s meetings, so he is not aware of what is happening." Suresh Kumar had announced the strike decision in a press conference, stating that the Malayalam film industry would come to a standstill from June 1. This led to widespread discussions, with Antony later responding through a detailed social media post. Now, Suresh Kumar has made it clear that the strike will proceed as planned.
Regarding his earlier remarks on Empuraan's budget, he clarified, "I spoke about Empuraan based on the information from those responsible. If he wants me to withdraw the statement, I will do it. Mohanlal is on the other side, and I don’t want to create unnecessary problems." The Mohanlal-starrer L2: Empuraan, directed by Prithviraj Sukumaran, is slated for a grand worldwide release on March 27.
Suresh Kumar also pointed out discrepancies in claims about the box office success of Malayalam films. "If Malayalam films have entered the 100-crore club, let Antony and others show the records," he challenged. He further explained his role in the association’s affairs, stating, "Anto Joseph has taken leave from the association until May. That is why I responded as the vice president."