- By Ridhi Suri
- Thu, 29 Aug 2024 07:40 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
The Malayalam film industry is currently grappling with a surge of sexual assault allegations following the release of the Hema Committee report. This report, which exposed widespread sexual exploitation, discrimination, and other abuses within the industry, has encouraged more women to share their distressing experiences. Reports indicate that 17 cases have been filed to date. In response to the controversy, the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) has been dissolved, with its executive committee and president Mohanlal resigning en masse. Among the recent accusations is one from actress Sonia Malhar, known for her supporting roles in various Malayalam films.
Sonia has alleged that she was groped by a well-known actor on the set of a film in Thodupuzha in 2013. She further revealed that this incident was not a one-time occurrence. Throughout her 11-year career in the film industry, she has encountered multiple difficulties, including instances of sexual harassment and verbal abuse. Reflecting on the incident, Sonia Malhar shared, "My first experience was at a movie location in Thodupuzha in 2013. A hero (actor) misbehaved with me. I was a little scared, I was crying and suddenly he apologised, and after that, we were just friends."
"My subordinates, friends, and other women are also facing the same issues like sexual harassment, verbal abuse, and if we are ready to sleep with someone… Due to all of this, I lost a lot of chances in the movie industry," she added.
She recently lodged a complaint with the special investigation team, providing detailed information about the actor involved, the location, and the date of the incident. While she has not yet named the actor publicly, she suggested that she might disclose this information to the media within the next two days. "My family members have not agreed to reveal the name yet, but maybe I will reveal the name in the media soon," she reportedly stated.
Meanwhile, the Kerala Government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the findings of the Hema Committee report, and it is anticipated that numerous high-profile actors and filmmakers will be interrogated as part of the investigation.