Me Too in cinemas: Nadigar Sangam takes strict action against abusers

Tamil actors and Nadigar Sangam leaders Vishal, Karthi and Nassar

The South Indian Artistes’ Association (SIAA), also known as Nadigar Sangam, has set up a special committee to ensure a safe working environment for women in the industry.

After a meeting on Sunday, September 8, at the Sangam, SIAA General Secretary Vishal said that veteran actors Rohini and Suhasini have been made the head of the Gender Sensitisation and Internal Complaints Committee (GSICC) and anyone, irrespective of the industry, can file complaints with the duo.

At a press conference, Sangam chairman Nassar said the organisation takes the issue (exploitation and abuse of women) seriously and has set up a committee to investigate cases of sexual harassment.

“We have given women the confidence that there is someone who will listen to their concerns. This is our first step. There can be 10 complaints, and every complaint is different. So we have to understand every complaint and act accordingly,” he said.

Rohini welcomes initiative

Rohini, known for her active involvement in social issues, welcomed the SIAA’s move.

“This is a crucial step to ensure that no voice goes unheard. The industry has long lacked a structured way to deal with these issues, and I am pleased that the association is taking this issue seriously,” she said.

The newly formed committee will focus on investigating complaints, providing counseling and taking necessary steps to ensure justice is done. The SIAA initiative is seen as part of a larger effort in the entertainment industry to create a safe environment for women.

GSICC was formed after a redacted report by the Justice K Hema Committee in Kerala was made public on August 19, after being kept in cold storage for four and a half years.

Hema Committee, formed after the abduction and sexual assault of a female actor in a moving car in Kochi in 2017, investigated the exploitation of women in the Malayalam cinema industry. The report triggered a Me Too storm in Kerala.

Also Read: Me Too in Mollywood Through the Decades: The Persistent Allegations and Unsolved Mysteries

The five-year ban for abusers

The Nadigar Sangam passed a resolution to proscribe sex offenders and provide comprehensive support to survivors. As part of this resolution, it was decided that the GSICC would provide legal assistance to those complaining of sexual harassment.

It was also decided to work with the producers association to enforce decisions taken against abusers. To streamline the process for survivors, Nadigar Sangam has also set up a special phone number and created a new email address specifically for filing complaints related to sexual misconduct.

The association further advised survivors to approach the GSICC directly rather than present their case to the media. The association wanted complaints to be dealt with in a structured and confidential manner.

The GSICC resolution also included a provision to initially warn alleged perpetrators. If the behavior persisted or the complaint was upheld, further action would be taken to hold the offender accountable.