Date: July 27, 2024

Vishal Warns TFPC: “Try and Stop Me”

Vishal, the former President of the Tamil Film Producers Council (TFPC), faces serious allegations of fund misuse. Elected in 2017, he was succeeded by Murali Ramasamy of Sri Thenandal Films in 2023. The council has since ordered an inquiry into Vishal’s handling of the council’s funds.

Allegations and Inquiry

The TFPC has called for an investigation into Vishal’s alleged misuse of funds during his tenure from 2017 to 2019. According to the council’s statement, a government-appointed special officer discovered significant financial discrepancies after analyzing the accounts. The auditor’s report revealed a misuse of approximately ₹12 crores, including ₹7.5 crores from the council’s bank deposits and ₹5 crores from income and expenditure between 2017 and 2019. Despite multiple requests for Vishal to return the misused funds, he has not responded.

TFPC’s Directive to Vishal

In light of these findings, the TFPC has advised producers and technicians working with Vishal to consult the association. This move aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the industry.

Public Response on Vishal

Vishal took to Twitter to defend his actions and criticize the council’s current administration. He emphasized that the financial decisions during his presidency were collective and aimed at the welfare of the council’s members.

“Don’t you know that it is a collective decision which includes the person in your team, Mr. Kathiresan, and the funds were used for the welfare works of the old/struggling members of the producers council. This includes providing education, medical insurance, and basic welfare during festivals, benefiting the council members and their families,” Vishal wrote.

Vishal’s Challenge

In his tweet, Vishal challenged the current administration to focus on pressing issues within the industry, such as double taxation and theater maintenance charges. He asserted his determination to continue working in films despite the allegations and expressed his disdain for those he claims have not contributed significantly to the industry.

“Do your jobs rightly and there is so much to work for the industry. Double taxation, theater maintenance charges, and so many things are there that need to be solved. Vishal will always continue to do films. Try and stop me, all you so-called producers who haven’t and will never produce films. Think progressively,” Vishal declared.

Looking Ahead

The outcome of the TFPC’s inquiry and Vishal’s response to the allegations will significantly impact the Tamil film industry. As the investigation proceeds, the industry watches closely, anticipating the next developments in this high-stakes controversy.