New Delhi, Sep 2: The Malayalam film industry is reeling from revelations made in a report by the Justice K. Hema Committee, which exposes widespread sexual exploitation and inhumane working conditions within the industry. The report, submitted to the Kerala government in December 2019 and released publicly recently, has unveiled shocking details of harassment and systemic discrimination faced by women in the film sector, reported the Economic Times.
Formed in 2017 following a petition by the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), the committee comprised Justice K. Hema, former actor Sharada, and retired IAS officer K.B. Valsala Kumari. The committee was tasked with investigating issues of sexual harassment and gender inequality in Malayalam cinema, a move prompted by a high-profile case of sexual assault against an actress in Kochi.
The report reveals a disturbing culture within the industry where sexual favours have been deemed necessary for career advancement. It highlights the existence of a powerful network controlling the industry and details numerous instances of “casting couch” practices affecting a range of women including actors, technicians, and support staff.
The committee’s findings also address significant shortcomings in working conditions, such as inadequate facilities, unsafe transportation, and lack of proper accommodation. Discriminatory practices related to remuneration and contractual agreements further exacerbate the disadvantages faced by women in the industry.
In response to the report, several actresses have publicly shared their experiences of sexual harassment, reigniting the #MeToo movement within Malayalam cinema. The turmoil has led to the dissolution of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) board, with its president, superstar Mohanlal, stepping down amid the controversy.
The revelations have prompted the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) composed of senior women police officers to conduct preliminary inquiries into the allegations. The report’s impact has extended beyond Kerala, with similar allegations emerging in other regional film industries, including Bollywood.
The Hema Committee’s report, which includes testimonies and evidence such as audio and video recordings, paints a grim picture of the industry’s inner workings. It reveals that some women were subjected to severe mistreatment, including prolonged work hours, inadequate pay, and forced participation in uncomfortable scenes.
The report’s release has been met with calls for immediate action from legal and political leaders. Opposition parties and legal experts have urged the government to launch a comprehensive investigation and implement reforms to address the systemic issues highlighted in the report.
The Kerala High Court has also intervened, directing the government to submit the full report in a sealed cover and to outline the steps being taken in response to the findings. The case will be reviewed again on September 10, as the industry faces increasing scrutiny and calls for significant reform.
The report’s disclosure marks a critical moment for Malayalam cinema, raising questions about the need for systemic change to ensure the safety and dignity of women working in the industry.
