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CPI(M) denies involvement in online attacks targeting Malayalam actor Mammootty

The Communist Party of India (Marxist) has rejected suggestions of party involvement in digital harassment campaigns against actor Mammootty. Party leader M.V. Govindan attributed recent online activism to student and youth wings' separate political activities.

LSN India · 30 October 2026

CPI(M) denies involvement in online attacks targeting Malayalam actor Mammootty

The CPI(M) distanced itself from online attacks directed at Malayalam cinema star Mammootty, with senior party leader M.V. Govindan clarifying that the party has no connection to the digital campaign. Govindan stated that the party's student and youth wings—the Students' Federation of India (SFI) and Democratic Youth Federation of India (DYFI)—have independently garnered considerable national recognition through their activism on various political matters, including opposition to Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.

Govindan suggested that any online activity by party affiliates should not be construed as a coordinated party directive or rationale to boycott the actor. He emphasized that the party's political engagements remain separate from any individual campaigns targeting public figures.

The clarification comes amid growing scrutiny over coordinated social media campaigns in Indian politics. Govindan's statement underscores the CPI(M)'s attempt to distinguish between the autonomous actions of its affiliated organizations and official party positions on public figures and entertainment personalities.

The party leader's remarks reflect broader tensions in Kerala's political landscape, where cultural figures often become focal points in ideological disputes. Govindan's statement suggests the CPI(M) seeks to maintain distance from digital harassment narratives while acknowledging its wings' independent political mobilization efforts.