• Source:JND
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The recently published Hema Committee report has created a massive stir in the Malayalam film industry. Mollywood actresses have been vehemently speaking up against the sexual misconduct they witnessed at the hands of the mighty lobby of the industry. As many as 17 cases have so far been registered in this regard, NDTV reported. The furore has led to the dissolution of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA). The executive committee of AMMA, along with its chief Mohanlal, submitted its joint resignation. The SIT, formed by the Kerala Government to probe the findings of the report, is likely to question many top actors and filmmakers.

Actor-turned-politician Khushbu Sundar, in the wake of the Hema Committee report, hailed the courage of women speaking up against the abuse she faced. She also shared her ordeal, highlighting abuse by none other than her own father. However, she did not mention if she faced a similar situation in the Kerala film industry.

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The latest FIR has been filed by actor Sonia Malhaar, who alleged that she was molested by an actor on a film set in 2013. She has lodged the complaint with the SIT. However, she urged people not to link actor Jayasurya, who is facing similar charges, with her case.

Actor Minu Muneer said that she was harassed by actors M Mukesh, Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju and Idavela Babu while shooting for several films. Muneer also claimed she was getting threat messages since she revealed their names. She also shared the screenshot of one such message. The SIT is likely to question her soon.

Bengali film actor Sreelekha Mitra has accused film director Ranjith of molestation. She alleged Ranjit called her to his flat to discuss a movie. During the discussion, he grasped her hand and tried to spread it to the other parts of her body with sexual intentions. Following the allegations, Ranjith resigned from his position as chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy on Sunday.

Besides, actress Revathy Sampath accused veteran Malayalam actor Siddique of sexual misconduct. In shocking revelations, Sampath alleged she was physically abused by Siddique in 2016, adding that her other friends also had similar experiences with the latter.

Hema Committee Report:

The Hema Committee was established in response to the sexual assault of a female actor in a moving car in Kerala. It was formed to examine the challenges faced by women in the Malayalam film industry. The committee's report uncovered that female actors in the Kerala film industry often lack access to proper amenities, including toilets and changing rooms at shooting locations.

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Additionally, it ascertained that women or girls, who are approached by production companies or certain individuals, are frequently pressured to make "adjustments" or "compromises" for opportunities. The report highlighted that the terms "compromise" and "adjustment" are commonly understood among women in the Malayalam film industry, implying that women are expected to be available for sex on demand.