The release of the Hema Committee report on 19th August 2024 was a significant turning point for the Malayalam film industry. The report brought attention to the problem of women being sexually harassed in the film industry, outlining the long-standing issues of exploitation, power abuse, and lobbying that have affected the industry for years.
The Hema Committee was established following a terrible event in February 2017. An important Malayalam actress was abducted, attacked, and filmed inside a moving vehicle. Inquiries uncovered that actor Dileep had reportedly planned the assault to “educate her.”
Following two years of collecting testimonies from multiple women, the Hema Committee presented a 296-page report in 2019. The report detailed how women frequently faced obstacles in accessing essential facilities like dressing rooms and bathrooms. A strong group of directors, producers, and technicians frequently assaulted women while on set.
The Hema Committee’s report has reignited discussions about the #MeToo movement in the Malayalam film industry. Following its release, multiple women stepped forward with accusations against well-known individuals in the industry. 17 cases have been reported in relation to sexual harassment claims which have caused an uproar in the Malayalam film sector and resulted in the disbandment of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).
Several movie actors and directors are expected to be interrogated. Veteran actor, Siddique, was accused of rape, causing him to step down as General Secretary of the AMMA. Likewise, filmmaker Ranjith resigned as the chairman of Kerala Chalachitra Academy following allegations of misconduct.
Despite these advancements, popular actors such as Mohanlal and Mammootty have not spoken out. The president of AMMA, Mohanlal, has not yet made a statement regarding the report. He had previously rejected the #MeToo movement, deeming it a passing trend.
The findings of the Hema Committee Report have resulted in demands for structural changes to guarantee a safer work environment for women, without harassment and abuse. The report highlighted the importance of providing survivors of sexual harassment with support systems such as counselling services, legal assistance, and safeguarding against online harassment.
