As a student activist he participated in protests against the repression and human rights violations during the Internal Emergency (1975–1977) declared by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

[citation needed] He was also active in the successful fight against the decision of the government to construct a hydroelectric project in Silent Valley in the Western Ghats ranges of Kerala, which would have destroyed the pristine rainforests of the region.

Later Saratchandan moved to Saudi Arabia and took up the job of Education Promotion Adviser with the British Council there.

His screenings helped in raising the awareness of the public on environment, human rights and other social issues.

He was also an active member of Vikalp, a human rights platform protesting against censorship and freedom of expression.