Hema Commission Report on Sexual Abuse and Gender Discrimination in Malayalam Film Industry

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan on Tuesday said the government will take strong action against any major offender if a woman who testified before the Hema commission files a complaint.

Responding to criticism over the government’s inaction on the commission’s findings at a press conference here, the Chief Minister stressed that Justice Hema’s report does not recommend registering and investigating cases based on the victims’ petitions. Moreover, the Chief Minister denied allegations that the government had suppressed the report for nearly five years, clarifying that Justice Hema had issued a letter requesting that the report not be released.

The report of the committee headed by retired Kerala High Court judge K Hema, made public on Monday, revealed the grim realities of the Malayalam film industry, including shocking cases of sexual abuse, gender discrimination and assault on women.

Pinarayi stated that the government will take strict action against anti-women tendencies in the film industry. He said that the letter from the chairman of the commission had stressed on the highly confidential nature of the report, which contains revelations made by women. It was stressed that the confidentiality of these women, who testified before the commission, should be maintained and the witnesses protected.

The Prime Minister said the government intends to take the commission’s recommendations seriously. A proposal is being considered to set up a tribunal aimed at curbing exploitation in the film and television series industry. Despite the significant financial implications, the government is seriously considering the demand for such a tribunal, he added.

Pinarayi said the government plans to hold a grand conclave to gather suggestions from the film industry and other stakeholders for developing a state film policy. Mechanisms have already been put in place to curb the use of substances, including alcohol and drugs, and to prevent sexual violence, with plans to strengthen these systems.

The Prime Minister said the government does not believe the entire film industry is problematic. It is unfair to tarnish the reputation of the entire industry.

The Prime Minister said the government has taken a strong stand on incidents of sexual abuse, citing the measures taken in the case of the actress’s sexual assault.

Pressure is mounting on the government to take action following the Hema Commission report

Several organizations are demanding that action be taken against perpetrators of sexual abuse and other forms of discrimination against women in the film industry.

The Commission’s findings and recommendations:

Significant Gender Disparities in Malayalam Cinema

Avoid hiring individuals with criminal records as drivers

Strict measures to prevent abuse of women by fan associations

Creating laws to address the challenges faced by women in the industry

Establishment of a tribunal for issues related to industry

People accused of serious crimes banned for a longer period

Toilet facilities on film sets

Ban alcohol and drugs on set

Avoid using derogatory language towards women

Ensure equal pay for female artists

Provide safe housing for women