Malayalam Filmmakers Face Charges in Kerala Ganja Scandal

NCB Drug Seizures

Posted by AI on 2025-11-07 11:17:11 | Last Updated by AI on 2025-12-11 06:10:19

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In a shocking turn of events, the Kerala Excise department has filed charges against three renowned Malayalam filmmakers and their associate, accusing them of possessing a small quantity of suspected hybrid ganja. This case, which began with a pre-dawn raid on April 27, 2025, has now reached a pivotal stage with the submission of the chargesheet.

The accused, directors Khalid Rahman, Ashraf Hamsa, and Sameer Thahir, along with their friend Shalif Muhammad, were arrested from an apartment in Kochi, allegedly rented by Mr. Thahir. The raid yielded 1.5 grams of suspected hybrid ganja, a quantity that falls within the 'small quantity' category as defined by the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. Despite the seemingly minor amount, the charges are serious, with the accused facing potential penalties under Section 20(b)(ii)(A) and Section 29 of the NDPS Act. These sections pertain to the possession of cannabis and the conspiracy to commit such offences, respectively.

The case has sent ripples through the Malayalam film industry, given the stature of the filmmakers involved. Khalid Rahman, known for his films like "Alappuzha Gymkhana" and the action-packed "Thallumaala," Ashraf Hamsa, the director of critically acclaimed "Thamaasha," and Sameer Thahir, a cinematographer-turned-director with movies like "Chappa Kurishu" under his belt, are all prominent figures in the industry. The chargesheet, filed by the Excise Enforcement and Anti-Narcotic Special Squad in Ernakulam, has added a new dimension to this high-profile case.

As the legal process unfolds, the public awaits further developments. The potential punishment, if convicted, could be a fine, given the small quantity involved. However, the case highlights the ongoing efforts of the Excise department to combat drug-related offences, regardless of the social status of the accused. With the chargesheet filed, the court proceedings will now determine the fate of these filmmakers and shed light on the broader implications of such cases on the entertainment industry.

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