Hema Committee report on sexual abuse, gender discrimination in Malayalam film industry

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala's Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, declared on Tuesday that the government will take decisive action against any high-profile offender if any woman who testified before the Hema Committee files a complaint.

Addressing the criticism over the government's inaction on the committee's findings at a press conference here, he emphasised that Justice Hema's report did not recommend registering and investigating cases based on the victims' petitions. Furthermore, the Chief Minister denied allegations that the government had withheld the report for almost five years, clarifying that Justice Hema had provided a letter requesting the report not be released.

The report of the committee led by retired Kerala High Court Judge Justice K Hema and released to the public on Monday, had exposed the grim realities of the Malayalam film industry, including shocking cases of sexual abuse, gender discrimination, and the mistreatment of women.

Pinarayi stated that the government will take strong measures against anti-women tendencies in the film industry. He said the committee chairperson's letter had emphasised the highly confidential nature of the report, which contains disclosures made by women. It was highlighted that the confidentiality of these women, who testified before the committee, must be preserved and the witnesses protected.

The chief minister stated that the government intends to take the committee's recommendations seriously. A proposal is under consideration to establish a tribunal aimed at curbing exploitation within the film and television serial industry. Despite the significant financial implications, the government is giving serious thought to the demand for such a tribunal, he added.

Pinarayi said the government plans to organize a major conclave to gather suggestions from the film industry and other stakeholders for developing a state film policy. Mechanisms are already established to curb the use of substances, including alcohol and drugs, and to prevent sexual assault, with plans to reinforce these systems.

The chief minister said the government does not believe that the entire film industry is problematic. It is unfair to tarnish the reputation of the whole industry.

The Chief Minister stated that the government has adopted a firm stance on incidents of sexual abuse, referring to the action taken in the actress assault case.

Pressure mounting on the government to act on Hema Committee report

Various organisations have demanded that action should be initiated against the perpetrators of sexual abuse and other forms of discrimination against women in the film industry.

The committee's findings and recommendations:

Significant gender disparities in Malayalam cinema

Avoid employing individuals with criminal background as drivers

Strict action to prevent the mistreatment of women by fans’ associations

Framing of laws to tackle the challenges faced by women in the industry

Formation of a tribunal for industry-related issues

Ban individuals charged with serious offences for an extended period

Toilet facilities on film sets

Ban alcohol and drugs on set

Prevent the use of derogatory language towards women

Ensure equal pay for female artists

Provide safe accommodations for women