Tanushree Dutta calls criminals who shield power to account in Hema Justice Commission report

Actor Tanushree Dutta has expressed her frustration over the protection of criminals by those in power, saying that no movement or report can bring about change under such circumstances. Dutta’s remarks followed the release of the Justice Hema Committee report, which revealed disturbing cases of harassment and sexual exploitation in the Malayalam film industry.

Dutta, who accused actor Nana Patekar of sexual harassment in 2018 – a charge he denies – stood in solidarity with the women who contributed to the commission’s lengthy report. The panel was set up after the 2017 actress sexual assault case involving actor Dileep, to investigate sexual harassment and gender inequality in Malayalam cinema.

Dutta believes the persistent problem lies with those in powerful positions continuing to protect the accused, thereby undermining both the legal and social systems designed to redress such grievances. She herself has faced significant challenges in her case against Patekar, including witness intimidation and lack of police cooperation.

(With input from agencies.)