Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian praised Premkumar, the former Kerala Chalachitra Academy Chairman, amid controversy over the academy's reconstitution. This matters as it highlights the government's stance on routine appointments and the value of past contributions.

Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian recently addressed the media regarding the reconstitution of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy's executive committee, praising former chairman Premkumar as a 'crystal-clear leftist' who made notable contributions during his tenure. Cherian clarified that the government’s actions were routine, stating that it is standard procedure to appoint new office-bearers once a term concludes. He noted that Premkumar was informed of the changes through social media while he was abroad. Cherian expressed that if there were any issues related to Premkumar's comments on the ASHA workers' protest, they would have surfaced earlier. He reaffirmed the government's respect for Premkumar's service and mentioned that their recent conversation did not indicate any resentment from him.