- By Ridhi Suri
- Wed, 28 Aug 2024 09:19 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Malayalam film industry is under intense scrutiny following the Hema Committee's report on sexual harassment and discrimination against women in Mollywood. Actress Minu Muneer had made serious allegations against Mukesh, Maniyanpilla Raju, Idavela Babu, and Jayasurya, claiming they physically and verbally abused her during a 2013 project. She detailed these accusations in a lengthy Facebook post. Now, reacting to her allegations, actor-politician Mukesh M, has publicly asserted his innocence. He called for a thorough investigation into the accusations.
Mukesh has called for a thorough and transparent investigation to clear his name. He wrote, "In response to the allegations raised against me and other film industry colleagues, I welcome the ongoing investigations. A fair and transparent inquiry is crucial to uncover the truth behind the accusations being discussed in the public domain."
He added, "As both an actor and a public representative, I hold a deep responsibility towards society. Coming from a family with a rich theatrical tradition, I am perhaps more capable than most of understanding the pain and concerns of those in the arts. My mother, who began acting at the age of fourteen, continues to perform at the age of eighty-seven. I have no qualms with those who seek to politically target me. Similar accusations were made against me in 2018 as part of a political drama, which the public dismissed. In the face of those now attempting to judge me, I am providing certain clarifications backed by evidence to demonstrate my innocence," Mukesh M added.
The actor alleged that Minu Muneer had previously sought financial assistance from him and later attempted to blackmail him. "This group, which has been persistently blackmailing me for money, has now turned against me at this opportune moment," he stated.
Previously, former Malayalam actress Minu Muneer lodged an email complaint accusing actors Jayasurya, Idavela Babu, and CPI(M) MLA and actor Mukesh of sexual assault. This followed a social media post where she alleged that these individuals, along with others, subjected her to verbal and physical abuse, leading her to leave the Malayalam film industry. In total, she has filed complaints against seven people, alleging various offenses including sexual harassment and verbal abuse.