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- By Ridhi Suri
- Tue, 27 Aug 2024 03:37 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Mohanlal has stepped down as president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), a decision announced on Tuesday afternoon that has left many astonished. Alongside his resignation, all members of the 17-member executive committee also submitted their collective resignations. This development comes as Jagadish was being considered for the general secretary role, a position previously held by actor Siddique, who resigned amid allegations of sexual abuse. According to a statement from the Association, the executive committee was dissolved following media reports of sexual abuse allegations involving some of its members.
"In light of allegations made by some actors against some of the committee members, AMMA has decided to dissolve the executive committee taking moral responsibility. A new committee will be formed after an election within two months. We hope that a leadership that is capable of revamping and strengthening the association will take over soon. We are thankful everyone for pointing out our errors,” the statement said.
Meanwhile, the recent revelations from the Justice Hema Committee report have stunned the entire nation. In response to the sexual assault of a Malayalam actress in 2017, the government established a three-member commission to investigate the case. The panel was led by retired Justice K.H. Hema, with former bureaucrat K.B. Valsalakumari and veteran actress Sharada also serving as members.
The now-dissolved executive committee included actors Jagadish, Jayan Cherthala, Baburaj, Kalabhavan Shajon, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Joy Mathew, Suresh Krishna, Tovino Thomas, Sarayu, Ansiba, Tini Tom, Ananya, Vinu Mohan and Jomol.
Hema Committee report
The release of the Hema Committee report has sent shockwaves through the Malayalam film industry, intensifying the #MeToo movement. The report, which has sparked nationwide outrage, exposes extensive misconduct and harassment experienced by female actors. Submitted to the government in 2019, the report was made public earlier this week and highlights critical issues within the Malayalam film industry, including sexual harassment, poor facilities like inadequate women’s restrooms and changing rooms, pay disparities, and gender-based discrimination.