Are women safe anywhere? It’s a question that every woman is asking right now when even the workplace has become terrible. The Hema Committee Report was another eye-opener on the #MeToo Movement that highlighted the workplace harassment women go through in the Malayalam Film Industry. These sexual harassment allegations made by women were against some prominent names from the industry. Here’s more on the same.
What Is Hema Committee Report?
The Hema Committee Report was a case headed by Retired Justice K. Hema and it was established after the Kerala-based Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) submitted a petition after s*xual harassment was raised by an actress from the Malayalam film industry. This committee was set up to investigate the s*xual harassment and assault cases in Malayalam cinema. The committee gave their report on August 19, 2024 and it left everyone shocked. The report also revealed that the male-dominated industry of Malayalam Cinema was controlled by a few powerful people who asked openly asked for s*xual favours from women. The investigation was also backed up with video evidence and WhatsApp messages.
Which Names Have Surfaced In Hema Committee Report?
The report has mentioned allegations about prominent actors and filmmakers in the Malayalam Film Industry. Some names are- Ranjith, Siddique, Saajin, V K Prakash, Edavela Babu, and actor Jaysurya.
Investigation
A seven-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) was set up to investigate all the allegations revealed in the Hema Committee Report. Many PILs (Public Interest Litigation) were registered in the court, and they sought criminal punishments against the accused in the report. The court has yet to give a judgement on the PILs and it will most likely happen on September 10.
Actor and film producer Mohanlal also resigned as the President Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes after the Hema Committee Report surfaced.
Also Read: Mohanlal Steps Down As AMMA President Amid MeToo Outrage