The film industry in Kerala, known as Mollywood, has been shaken by a wave of allegations of sexual misconduct following the release of a report by the Hema Committee detailing rampant abuse against women in the Malayalam film industry. The report highlighted issues such as lack of changing rooms for women, the casting couch, online harassment, and contract issues. The report also recommended the establishment of a judicial tribunal to allow women to file complaints.
In response to the report, a flood of new allegations emerged, leading to actresses coming forward with accusations of sexual harassment and assault against prominent figures in the industry. The Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) executive committee resigned due to accusations against its members.
Activists are calling for the names of alleged perpetrators to be made public, criticizing the government’s delay in releasing the report and calling for transparency in dealing with the issue. They emphasize the need for structural changes in the industry to create a safer workspace culture for women.
The movement in Kerala has been compared to the #MeToo movement in Hollywood, highlighting the need for a broader reckoning within the film industry. The focus is not just on naming and shaming perpetrators but on reshaping the industry to ensure the safety and dignity of women working in Mollywood. Efforts to establish a judicial tribunal to address sexual misconduct cases are ongoing, while existing mechanisms for complaints in the workplace are being reviewed for their effectiveness.
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