• Source:JND
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Justice Hema Committee's report on women facing sexual harassment and discrimination in the Malayalam film industry has shocked the country. Actor-politician Khushbu Sundar has now shown support towards these exports for raising the issue and also urged men to support the victims. She also talked about why it took her so long to speak up about the abuse she faced from her father.

Khushbu Sundar wrote on X, "This moment of #MeToo prevailing in our industry breaks you. Kudos to the women who have stood their ground and emerged victorious. The #HemaCommittee was much needed to break the abuse. But will it? Abuse, asking for sexual favors, and expecting women to compromise to gain a foothold or accelerate their careers exist in every field. Why is a woman alone expected to go through the grind? Although men too face it, it's marginally women who bear the brunt."

Talking about her own experiences, she said, "Some ask me what took me so long to speak about my father's abuse. I agree I should have spoken earlier. But what happened to me, was not a compromise to build my career. I was abused at the hands of the person who was suppose to provide me the strongest arms to hold me if I fell. To all the men out there, I implore you to stand by the victim and show your unwavering support. Every man was born to a woman who endured incredible pain and sacrifice. Many women play indispensable roles in your upbringing, shaping you into the person you are today—your mothers, sisters, aunts, teachers, and friends."

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She concluded, "Let’s understand that many women don't even have the support of their families. They come from small towns with stars in their eyes, hoping to shine brightly but often find their dreams nipped and crushed at the bud. This should be a wake-up call to ALL. Let the exploitation stop here. Women, come out and speak. Remember, you always have a choice in life. Your NO is definitely a NO. Never adjust or compromise on your dignity and respectability. EVER. I stand with all the women who have been through this. As a mother and as a woman."

Justice Hema committee is headed by Justice K Hema (retired) with former bureaucrat KB Valsalakumari and veteran actress Sharada as the other two members. It was formed after a Malayalam actress was sexually assaulted in 2017.