Sexual Harassment: Kannada Actors Call For Commission

Kannada film industry seeks panel to tackle sexual harassment in the industry. (iStock)

More than 150 film professionals have appealed to the Karnataka government to set up a committee headed by a retired judge to tackle sexual harassment in the Kannada film industry.

In a letter dated September 4, the celebrities urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to look into the systemic issues affecting women in Kannada cinema. The letter was sent on behalf of the Film Industry for Rights and Equality (FIRE), a collective that advocates for a safer work environment.

Sandalwood celebrities, including actors Kichcha Sudeep and Ramya, signed the letter, which stressed the need for a detailed investigation into the rampant sexual harassment in the Kannada film industry.

FIRE’s demand follows the recent report by the Justice Hema Committee in Kerala, which exposed numerous cases of sexual exploitation in Malayalam cinemas.

Led by director, screenwriter and lyricist Kavita Lankesh, FIRE seeks reforms in Kannada cinema, especially in the wake of the #MeToo movement. The group has urged the Karnataka government to formulate policies to ensure a “healthy and fair working environment for women” in the industry.

FIRE called for the appointment of a retired Supreme Court or High Court judge, preferably someone with a history of promoting gender justice, to head the proposed committee. The group also stressed the importance of an in-depth investigation and meaningful action to address the challenges faced by women in Kannada cinema.

FIRE has played a key role in setting up India’s first Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) within the film industry, aimed at providing support to victims of sexual harassment.

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Kishore Kumar and Pranitha’s point of view

Meanwhile, actor Kishore Kumar G expressed his concerns over the prevalence of sexual harassment in the film industry.

In an interview with India Todayhe noted that exploitation is not limited to cinema but occurs in various areas. He urged Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to take urgent action by setting up a special committee to tackle sexual harassment.

Kishore also criticised the lack of attention paid to those who spoke out during the #MeToo movement and expressed hope that more fundamental changes will take place within the sector.

Actor Pranita Subhash has also extended her support to the initiative. She said India Today that she supports the idea of forming a committee to maintain the anonymity of victims while ensuring justice. She also praised the efforts of the Kannada film community to address these issues.

(Edited by Y Krishna Jyothi)