Kerala Minister Asserts Zero Tolerance for Celebrities in Drug Crackdown After Actor’s Arrest

Following actor Shine Tom Chacko’s arrest, Kerala Minister MB Rajesh declared a firm stance against drugs, stating celebrities will receive no leniency. He praised a female actor for standing against substance abuse and assured that all complaints will be taken seriously as the state intensifies its anti-drug campaign.

Kerala Excise Minister MB Rajesh has reaffirmed the state’s unwavering commitment to combating drug abuse, stating that there will be no special treatment for celebrities or individuals from any industry. His remarks come just a day after the arrest of Malayalam actor Shine Tom Chacko by Kochi police in connection with a drugs-related case. The actor, booked under the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, has also faced allegations of misbehaviour towards a female actor on set, reportedly under the influence of narcotics.

Speaking from Palakkad on Sunday, Rajesh stated that the state’s excise and police departments are operating on a “war footing” against the drug menace and vowed to deal with all offenders “with an iron fist.” He reiterated that Kerala aims to become a drug-free state and warned that inspections would be carried out across sectors, regardless of a person’s status or popularity.

The minister also revealed that he personally spoke to the female actor who filed a formal complaint with the internal committee of the film and the Kerala Film Chamber of Commerce. Although she chose not to pursue a police case, she has pledged to support the investigation and maintain her stance against working with individuals who consume drugs. Rajesh praised her courage and urged others in the film industry to support such principled positions rather than isolate those who speak out.

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Meanwhile, the Kerala Film Chamber of Commerce is set to hold an urgent meeting to review the complaint against Chacko. While film crew members claimed they were unaware of the misbehaviour until the actor’s Instagram disclosure, the Chamber has promised firm action based on the evidence presented.