Kamal Ghorui
The Southern India Film Editor’s Association (SIFEA) has suspended film editor Pradeep E Raghav for allegedly violating union bylaws and failing to prevent the illegal online leak of the Thalapathy Vijay starrer Jana Nayagan. The decision was taken on Friday following an emergency executive committee meeting held on April 17.
SIFEA suspends editor Pradeep E Raghav
As per a PTI report, the committee comprising senior editors and key members discussed serious concerns regarding Raghav’s professional conduct. After deliberation, the association decided to suspend him with immediate effect.
Violation of union rules
The association stated that Raghav repeatedly violated union rules by employing non-union members as assistants in his projects, including Jana Nayagan. SIFEA maintained that this goes against established guidelines and undermines the functioning of the industry.The film, starring actor Vijay, was recently leaked online illegally, creating a major setback for the makers. While SIFEA clarified that Raghav may not be directly responsible for the leak, it noted that he admitted to “negligence” in handling the process.
SIFEA’s official statement
In its official statement, the association said, “The association has a responsibility to prevent such undesirable incidents in the future to protect the integrity of the film industry. If this trend continues, the very functioning of the industry is at risk.” The statement was signed by President V Gopikrishna and General Secretary N B Umashankarbabu.Following the suspension, SIFEA confirmed it will not extend any support or collaboration to Raghav during this period and urged other film bodies to maintain discipline and uphold union regulations.
About ‘Jana Nayagan’
Jana Nayagan was initially scheduled to release on January 9 but was delayed due to legal issues involving the CBFC. The film later faced additional setbacks after being leaked online.Directed by H. Vinoth, the film features Pooja Hegde, Bobby Deol, Prakash Raj, Gautham Vasudev Menon, and Mamitha Baiju in key roles.
