Kochi (Kerala), June 7 (IANS) Close to 30 leading directors Saturday resigned from the Malayalam Cine Technicians Association (MACTA), bringing to the fore a crisis plaguing film industry organisations in Kerala.

It surfaced early this week when ace film director Siddique and MACTA general secretary Vinayan had an argument at an executive committee meeting of the directors union. The meeting was called to discuss a matter between upcoming superstar Dileep and director Thulasidas.

Film director Renjith, who sparked the crisis, told reporters Saturday that though he was not in the executive committee, he was pained to hear about 'bad words' that Vinayan used against Siddique.

'I had decided to resign and now I hear that many have resigned. These resignations are due to those who lead the organization... (they) have to show maturity,' said Renjith.

Among the others who have announced their resignation from MACTA are Fazil, Joshi, Sathyan Anthicadu and Kamal.

The MACTA comprises 18 categories of Malayalam film industry workers - right from drivers to directors.

Vinayan, who is also a veteran director, told mediapersons: 'During the executive meeting when Siddique expressed his displeasure over the words I used, I immediately withdrew it.

'And now I hear many directors have resigned. A section in the industry are up in arms against me. MACTA comprises more than 4,000 people and the resignations of a few are not going to cause any dent,' he added.

A standoff between director Thulasidas and Dileep is the reason behind the fracas.

Thulasidas was taken aback when Dileep after taking a payment of Rs.4 million four years back for a film to be produced by Ulattil Sasi withdrew from the project following a string of flops by the director.

Speaking to reporters, ace character artist and comedian Innocent, also president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists, said he was pained to hear about the developments.

'All I can say is that this is fate and am sad that an organization is on the verge of a split. I personally feel that Dileep is not a person who has so much clout among the directors,' said Innocent.

The film industry in Kerala has, besides the MACTA, professional organisations to protect the interests of producers, stars and exhibitors. Skirmishes between these organisations are common.