Mammootty's Wayanad Visit Sparks Debate Over Political Perceptions and Relief Efforts

Actor Mammootty's visit on March 7, 2026, to a Wayanad township for landslide survivors sparked controversy after he asked CPI(M) leader K. Rafeeq to step aside, fearing public perception of political backing. CPI(M) leaders highlighted Rafeeq's role in relief efforts and downplayed the incident, while Congress condemned alleged cyberbullying against Mammootty. The actor later clarified his remarks, emphasizing the township as a collective effort funded by Kerala's people, not a political project.