Publication of report just beginning, Kerala govt must be proactive, say activists

“It is a relief that the report has been published after five years. We need to work towards a change in the industry and make it safe for women and young artists. Other organisations and the state government should take the initiative to make shooting sets safe for women. It should lead to more discussions and policy formulations,” says Sajitha.

Chandrika emphasises that state government intervention can help create a sector with equal and fair opportunities.

According to screenwriter Deedi Damodharan, the report has given a voice to several women in the industry.

“I don’t think all these recommendations will be implemented or the problems will be fully addressed. Previously, women’s voices were not heard. The findings of the commission show how misogynistic the system is,” she says.

Deedi stresses that people in power groups must adhere to rules and standards now that the report has been published.

Regarding the Internal Complaints Committee (ICC), Sajitha says there should be a system where artists and technicians can file their complaints. “The efforts of WCC helped in setting up an ICC. However, it remains in the document. The artists, or even members of ICC, are not aware of the committee. The artists do not even know where to complain or who to approach. We need to work to change the scenario,” she says.