Explosive Report on Malayalam Film Industry’s Harassment

The highly anticipated report from the Justice Hema Committee was unveiled on August 19, 2024, revealing troubling accounts of harassment and exploitation of women in the Malayalam film industry.

This committee was formed in 2019 to investigate the various challenges faced by female professionals in this sector, and the findings are shocking.

The report documents numerous instances of sexual harassment, including accusations that many women experienced inappropriate advances even before starting their work in films.

Among the alarming revelations are claims that intoxicated individuals from the industry would knock on the doors of female actors’ rooms. Several women expressed their fear of reporting these incidents to the police due to potential repercussions.

According to the report, job offers in the film industry often come with unwanted sexual demands. Women are urged to ‘adjust and compromise’ in exchange for acting opportunities.

The committee also suggested that a ‘criminal gang’ appears to be in control of the Malayalam film industry, highlighting the urgent need for law enforcement to take action against these crimes.

Notably, some women are afraid to come forward, fearing for their safety following their testimonies.

In recent remarks, State Culture Minister Saji Cherian stated that the Kerala government was not opposed to releasing the findings of the Justice Hema Committee.

This follows delays related to the report’s public release, which was attributed to sensitive content and legal appeals.

Earlier this month, the Kerala High Court dismissed an appeal by actress Ranjini against releasing the report, emphasizing the importance of transparency.

The report has been in the spotlight since it was first completed in December 2019, following the infamous 2017 assault case involving actor Dileep.