In Kerala's film industry, more male actors have been named in new sexual abuse allegations following the release of the Justice Hema committee report.
The Kerala government has formed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) of top IPS officers to investigate these claims. In response, prominent actor Siddique and director Ranjith resigned from key film industry positions after being accused by women.
Ernakulam North police have filed an FIR against director Ranjith under IPC Section 354 following a Bengali actress's complaint about a 2009 incident. The Hema committee's report highlights widespread sexual harassment and abuse of women in Kerala's film industry, controlled by an all-male power group, and notes the lack of basic facilities like toilets and changing rooms for women on sets.
A female actor has accused well-known actors M Mukesh, Jayasurya, Edavela Babu, Maniyanpilla Raju, and production controller Noble of sexual abuse.
Additionally, a junior female actor reported to the media that she was abused by actor Baburaj, who also serves as the joint secretary of the influential Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).
Mohanlal resigns as AMMA president, executive committee dissolved
Actor Mohanlal has stepped down as president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) amid growing criticism over the handling of sexual harassment allegations in the Malayalam film industry. The entire AMMA executive committee has also resigned. These resignations follow the Justice K Hema Committee's report, which uncovered widespread harassment and abuse of women in the industry, igniting public outrage and demands for accountability.
