The Malayalam film industry is grappling with serious allegations following a recent report by
the Justice Hema Committee. This investigation, prompted by a petition from the Women in
Cinema Collective (WCC) after a high-profile sexual assault case, has uncovered disturbing
patterns of exploitation and abuse within the industry.
The report details a troubling culture of harassment that begins from the outset of women’s
careers in cinema. Witness testimonies reveal that harassment starts early in women’s
careers, with numerous actors reporting coercion into uncomfortable situations by influential
figures in the industry.The report underscores that terms like “compromise” and “adjustment”
are often used to pressure women into providing sexual favors in exchange for roles or
career advancement. This coercive practice reflects a deeply entrenched culture of
exploitation that undermines women’s dignity and safety.
One of the most shocking revelations concerns the unsafe conditions faced by female actors
while staying in accommodations during shoots. Many actresses feel compelled to have
friends or relatives accompany them due to fears of harassment. The report describes
disturbing incidents where men, often intoxicated, aggressively knock on the doors of
women’s hotel rooms. Witnesses have reported that these men bang on doors with such
force that the women inside fear that their rooms might be forcibly entered. This behavior
creates an atmosphere of constant fear and insecurity, highlighting a dire need for better
protective measures.
The report also exposes systemic issues related to working conditions and remuneration.
Women and junior actors frequently face difficulties in securing their full wages, primarily due
to the absence of written contracts. The lack of formal agreements leaves them vulnerable to
exploitation, with many actors struggling to enforce their wage rights. The report recounts a
particular case where a female actor was forced to plead for her rightful payment, illustrating
the precarious financial situation many face.
Furthermore, the investigation reveals the influence of a powerful nexus within the
industry—a small group of producers, directors, actors, and production controllers who exert
significant control over the field. This network creates an environment where women are
often too intimidated to report sexual harassment, fearing that complaints will lead to being blacklisted from future projects. Such retaliation not only affects their current roles but
threatens their entire careers, leaving many victims with no recourse.
The report also highlights that this power nexus does not only impact women; aspiring male
actors also fall victim to the same oppressive dynamics. The pervasive nature of this control
underscores the need for widespread reform to address the underlying issues of power and
exploitation.
Addressing these systemic problems is crucial for transforming the Malayalam film industry
into a more equitable and inclusive environment. The report emphasizes that reform is not
merely about rectifying individual injustices but also about fostering a culture of respect and
fairness. By addressing harassment, improving working conditions, and ensuring fair
remuneration, the industry can create a safer and more supportive environment for all its
professionals.
The Justice Hema Committee’s findings emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive
action to address these fundamental issues.Implementing comprehensive reforms and
establishing robust protections will be essential steps toward creating a film industry that
upholds the principles of equality and respect for all its members.
