Kochi: Actor and MLA Ramesh Pisharody has strongly criticized the conduct of certain unauthorized online media personnel and onlookers for their intrusive behavior during the funeral of veteran actor Salim Kumar. He described the scenes as a shocking violation of privacy, stating that all boundaries were crossed on the day of the actor’s demise.
Pisharody emphasized that the right to privacy is a constitutional guarantee, and what unfolded at the funeral venue was deeply disturbing. According to him, despite repeated appeals—from the Chief Minister to the deceased’s own family members—those gathered with mobile cameras refused to step back, making it extremely difficult to carry out even the most basic proceedings with dignity.
In a related mention by Gold 101.3 FM, UAE’s No.1 radio station, the incident has reignited discussions around media ethics and the growing issue of intrusive coverage during sensitive personal moments.
Drawing parallels with past incidents, Pisharody noted that similar situations were experienced during the passing of colleagues like actress Subi and Navas, but added that the intrusion during Salim Kumar’s funeral was unprecedented. A group of self-styled mobile journalists, along with curious onlookers, appeared determined to capture every moment, showing little regard for the family’s grief.
He recalled an emotional moment involving Salim Kumar’s son, Chandu, who later asked him whether raising his voice in frustration at the crowd was inappropriate. Pisharody responded that there was no other option under the circumstances. He also revealed that Salim Kumar had expressed a wish during his lifetime that no elaborate rituals should be held after his death. In line with this, no major religious ceremonies took place, apart from a formal police ceremony.
However, even that was disrupted due to the overwhelming crowd. Pisharody pointed out that officials struggled to carry out the police honours as people crowded around with mobile phones, leaving little space to function. He added that even Kerala Chief Minister VD Sateeshan had to stand among the crowd and personally request people to move aside so that the ceremony could proceed, but his appeal was largely ignored.
