'Empuraan' Producer Raided By ED Over Alleged FEMA Violations: What We Know So Far

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Friday carried out raids on the offices of businessman Gokulam Gopalan, one of the producers of the Mohanlal-starrer L2: Empuraan, over alleged violations of the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA). According to officials cited by PTI, searches were conducted at multiple locations, including Chennai in Tamil Nadu and Kochi in Kerala. Gopalan, also known as AM Gopalan, is the founder of Sree Gokulam Chits, a chit fund company operating across several states, including Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Telangana, Maharashtra, and Delhi.

His firm is under investigation for suspected FEMA violations and unauthorised transactions. Previous Scrutiny Of Gopalan’s Firm This is not the first time Gopalan's business has come under regulatory scrutiny. In 2017, the Income Tax department raided Sree Gokulam Chits across three states over alleged tax evasion.



Officials claimed that the company had concealed substantial income, including recovered bad debts and interest earnings, leading to tax evasion amounting to ₹1,107 crore over five years. Also Read: L2: Empuraan Controversy Takes Over Parliament; Suresh Gopi Claims No Pressure On Producers For 17 Cuts L2: Empuraan Controversy Over 2002 Riots Depiction The ED's action comes amid ongoing controversy surrounding L2: Empuraan, the second installment of the Lucifer trilogy. The film has faced backlash for its depiction of right-wing politics and references to the 2002 Gujarat riots, leading to widespread protests.

Following the controversy, lead actor Mohanlal addressed concerns and assured that the contentious portions would be removed. "I have come to know that some political and social themes that were included in the unveiling of Empuraan..

. have caused considerable distress among many of my loved ones,” Mohanlal stated in a Facebook post. “As an artist, it is my duty to ensure that none of my films promote hatred towards any political movement, ideology, or religious group.

" Amid the heated debate, CPI(M) MP John Brittas raised concerns over alleged censorship pressures on the film. However, Union Minister Suresh Gopi dismissed such claims, stating, “There was no censor pressure on the producer of Empuraan. I was the first person to call the producers and ask them to delete my name in the credits of the beginning of the film.

This is the truth.” Gopi further revealed that the decision to remove certain scenes was taken by the producer and lead actor, with the director's approval. The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) ultimately mandated 24 cuts, amounting to a total reduction of 2 minutes and 8 seconds.

Among the changes, the title card '2002-India' was altered to 'A few years ago', and the name of the villain was changed from 'Bajrangi' to 'Baldev'. Additionally, scenes depicting violence against women and certain dialogues from the antagonist were removed. References to the NIA were also edited out, reportedly following pressure from Sangh Parivar leaders.

The film was re-released on April 2 with these modifications. (With inputs from PTI) Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from India and around the world..