In the latest twist in the Malayalam film industry’s ongoing confrontation with workplace harassment, the Kerala Police’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) has reported to the High Court that it is withdrawing all 35 cases filed based on the Justice Hema Committee report. And the reason behind this decision is because no victims have stepped forward to provide formal statements.
What Happened With Hema Committee Report?
For the unversed, The Justice Hema Committee was established following the 2017 abduction and s*xual assault of a popular Malayalam actress, which had shaken the industry and triggered widespread calls for accountability. The committee presented its report in 2018, which pointed to entrenched issues of misogyny, harassment, and institutional apathy towards women in Malayalam cinema.
But the report was kept secret until 2024, when it was released at last provoking hot controversy and the eventual dissolution of the association of the top actors.
After the report was made public, 35 cases were filed for investigation and were to be disposed of by a dedicated SIT. But during a hearing on Wednesday, the SIT informed a division bench of Justices A.K. Jayasankaran Nambiar and C.S. Sudha that it had no option but to wrap up all cases because there was no direct victim involvement.
The High Court recognized the update of the SIT and concurred that nothing further could be done with the complaints at this point. It also mentioned that the case would be heard again later if necessary.
Also Read: Hema Committee Row: Kerala Government Assures Major Reforms To Protect Women In Malayalam Cinema
At the same time, the Kerala government is hosting a Film Conclave in the first week of August 2025 to deliberate on larger changes in the entertainment sector. The High Court has fixed the next hearing for August 13 to peruse any developments or new progress resulting from the conclave.