Following the swearing in of the new UDF government, Resul Pookutty has stepped down as chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy. The award-winning sound designer was appointed as the academy's chairman last October, replacing actor Prem Kumar.Resul Pookutty
Following the government change, actor-director Madhupal also resigned from his position as the chairman of the State Cultural Activities Welfare Fund Board.
Resul reportedly submitted his resignation to the chief secretary after the new government did not request him to continue in the position. It is reported that actors Jagadish, Salim Kumar and filmmaker Deepu Karunakaran, all Congress supporters, are in consideration for the post. Prem Kumar is also said to be in contention.
Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, founded in August 1998 to promote cinema in Kerala, was the first of its kind in India. The academy's current administration includes Vice Chairperson Kukku Parameswaran and Secretary C Ajoy, with the governing council featuring prominent film personalities such as actors Nikhila Vimal, Saju Navodaya, Poojappura Radhakrishnan, Sudheer Karamana, and Santhosh Keezhattoor; director Amal Neerad; singer Sithara Krishnakumar; and screenwriter Syam Pushkaran.