- Kerala Film Industry Hit by Sexual Abuse Allegations
- AMMA Dissolved Following Allegations Against Members
- Kerala Government Faces Pressure Over Delayed Report Release
A landmark report detailing sexual harassment and abuse in the Malayalam film industry has sent shockwaves through the state of Kerala, with multiple allegations, resignations, and police complaints emerging in its wake.
The 290-page report, compiled by the Hema committee, highlights the struggles faced by women in the industry, including poor working conditions and rampant sexual harassment. Since its release, over a dozen police complaints have been filed against male stars, with two counter-complaints also being lodged.
The industry’s top governing body, the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), has been dissolved, with its president, Mohanlal, resigning on “moral grounds” amidst accusations against some members.
Actress Mala Parvathy told BBC Hindi, “This is just the tip of the iceberg. Only a few have spoken up till now. More serious issues may emerge.”
The report’s release has sparked a wider conversation about sexual harassment in India’s film industries, with many watching the developments in Kerala closely.
Allegations and Reactions
Multiple women have come forward with allegations of sexual assault and harassment, including Bengali actress Sreelekha Mitra, who accused director Ranjith of sexual harassment. Minu Muneer detailed instances of sexual misconduct by prominent actor and lawmaker Mukesh, who has denied the allegations.
Two actresses have accused a director of knocking on their hotel room doors at night, while another has accused well-known actor Siddique of rape.
The Kerala government has faced criticism for delaying the report’s release and has since set up a special team to investigate complaints. The Kerala High Court has also asked the government to submit the entire report, including redacted pages.
Industry Reactions
Reactions within the industry have been mixed, with some welcoming the report’s release and calling for a proper investigation. Others have criticized the report for branding all men in the industry as abusers.
Actress Parvathy Thiruvothu, a founding member of the Women in Cinema Collective, argued that the report and subsequent shake-up are positive changes in an industry often celebrated for making progressive films.
“I am not ok with people saying, ‘Malayalam industry is so rotten inside’. No, we are good inside, which is why we are fixing it,” she told a news channel.
