Second case against actor Jayasurya

Malayalam actor Jayasurya is facing the wrath of actresses once again and has registered a new FIR against him on a complaint filed by another actress. With the recent news of the actress’ sexual harassment allegations in the Malayalam film industry increasing, there was no doubt that this complaint would be just one of many. Based on what the Kerala police has said, the second FIR has been filed under 354, 354 A (A 1) (I) and 354 D of the Indian Penal Code. The case which was initially registered in Thiruvananthapuram will be shifted to Thodupuzha police station for accountability.

These developments come after the Hema Committee report, following which many women from the Malayalam film industry came forward with their stories of exploitation and harassment. On Thursday, actress Sonia Malhar opened up about her history and gave disturbing accounts of abuse she faced early in her career.

Sonia recalled a particular scene during the shoot in Thodupuzha, where the crew went berserk. In her own words, “When I was coming back from the toilet, someone grabbed me and held me, it’s a scar. I wanted to pee, I was sorry after that, but this man apologized.” After this incident, Sonia had to go through a series of frustrations in her career, like getting refunds way after the due date and backing out of projects where she got commitments.

The actress explained why she decided to share it all, she stated that the fact that the actress from another region had witnessed yet another scary act made her beg for reprisals. Many have remained silent, especially Sonia about this Hema commission report and the oppression of women in the industry. Sonia expressed her displeasure by stating: “It is horrible that the women of the other states have so many insults that she is not even allowed to come to a place and be respected as she should be.”

On August 28, the first FIR in connection with this scandal was filed against actor cum CPI M MLA Mukesh M on the complaint of actress Minu Muneer. The police complaint named Jayasurya and other leading figures from the industry such as actors Maniyanpilla Raju and Idavela Babu.

Minu Muneer not only accused her of molestation but also alleged that Jayasurya once hugged her from behind while kissing her without her consent while Idavela Babu begged her to sleep with him. She even narrated the unsolicited advances of Maniyanpilla Raju who indecently asked her to go to a hotel.