In a surprise decision, actor Ponvannan, who was elected as Nadigar Sangam’s vice-president in 2015, resigned from the post. Asked why he took this drastic decision, Mr. Ponvannan cited Nadigar Sangam general secretary and actor Vishal’s decision to contest the R.K.Nagar byelection. “When we decided to contest the Nadigar Sangam elections, we repeatedly promised that the Sangam will be politically neutral. The main four people — president, vice-president, general secretary and treasurer — ran on that plank. Now, with Vishal contesting the byelection, I am unable to reconcile it with what we promised,” said Mr. Ponvannan.
Reiterating his belief that Nadigar Sangam must remain totally politically neutral, he said, “Nadigar Sangam is represented by actors - young and old, rich and poor. It shouldn't be used as a launch pad for politics just because it can easily be in the news. It is should be completely neutral."
He further said that Nadigar Sangam is not the place to identify future Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu.
In a statement, Nadigar Sangam president Nasser said that Ponvannan’s resignation has not been accepted and urged him to change his stance on this issue. “Actor Vishal had explained his position that he didn't violate any of the rules and that nobody should create a difficult situation for the Nadigar Sangam," he said.
Meanwhile, Nadigar Sangam treasurer Karthi tweeted that the Nadigar Sangam building that is being constructed will be finished by 2018.
Just a few days ago, director Cheran had raised a banner of protest against actor Vishal and demanded that he resign from the post of president of Tamil Film Producers Council. He said that Vishal taking an antagonistic stance against politicians and political party will not augur well for the Producers Council since it has to constantly liaise with the State government for many things including taxes, subsidy, ticket prices etc.
