Malayalam actor Shwetha Menon has approached the Kerala High Court seeking to quash an FIR filed against her concerning alleged "vulgar" scenes in some of her films and advertisements. This legal move comes just ahead of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) elections, where Menon is a candidate for the president's post. The FIR was registered following a complaint by Martin Menacherry of Ernakulam, who alleged that Menon gained financially through films and advertisements containing obscene and vulgar content.

Menon is contesting for the post of president in the upcoming AMMA elections scheduled for August 15. With Jagadeesh withdrawing from the race, she is now competing against actor Devan. If elected, Menon would be the first woman president of AMMA.

The FIR includes charges under Sections 3 and 5 of the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act, 1956, and Section 67(A) of the Information Technology Act, 2000, which deals with publishing or transmitting material containing sexually explicit acts. These charges are non-bailable.

Menon's legal team, consisting of Advocates Unni Sebastian Kappen and M Revikrishnan, argued that the case is an abuse of the court's process, stating that the allegations are "ex facie absurd and improbable". The complaint specifically mentions films like "Paleri Manikyam," "Rathinirvedham," and "Kalimannu," as well as a condom advertisement, claiming they contain obscene visuals. Menacherry also alleged that searching the internet would reveal obscene photos of the actress.

Menon, in her petition, described the complaint as unfounded, baseless, and absurd. She contends that the proceedings were initiated with malicious intent and that she has a good reputation in society. Menon also argues that her performances were part of films certified by the Central Board of Film Certification, some of which have received national recognition and awards. She denies any illegal activity and suggests the charges are politically motivated. Menon's petition seeks an immediate stay on the ongoing investigation.

Menon's petition emphasizes her unblemished career spanning over three decades. She highlights her credentials as a pan-India actress, renowned model, and former Ms. India, who has received two Kerala State Film Awards, a Filmfare Award, and several international film festival awards. The Ernakulam Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) Court directed the registration of a case against Menon based on Menachery's complaint. Following this, the Ernakulam Central Police registered the FIR. Menon's petition notes a growing consensus within AMMA favored a woman president this time, positioning her as a strong frontrunner.