Mohanlal addresses industry amid #MeToo scandal, pledges support for Justice Hema report

In his first speech since stepping down as president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) amid the #MeToo scandal in Mollywood, actor Mohanlal on Saturday urged the public not to “destroy” the Malayalam film industry. He endorsed the Hema Committee report and assured that the culprits would be punished, promising full cooperation in the investigation. He also mentioned that elections for new posts in AMMA will be held soon.

A redacted version of the Justice Hema Committee report detailing harassment of women in the Malayalam cinema industry was released earlier this month. The shocking accounts of exploitation and abuse in the report have sent shockwaves through the industry. “When such incidents come to light, potentially endangering the entire industry, our options become limited. We urge that the focus should not be on AMMA alone. The investigation is underway and all statements are in the open,” the veteran actor said on Saturday.

“There are also internal differences within the association and we will take appropriate action,” Mohanlal added. “Elections are coming soon. This is not an attempt to evade responsibility. The publication of the Hema committee report was a right decision by the government and we are happy about it. I have served as the chairman of AMMA for the past two terms and the entire Malayalam cinema community is responsible for the resignations of the executive members.” The veteran actor, along with other AMMA leaders, resigned after serious allegations of sexual abuse were levelled against prominent figures in Malayalam cinema, including director Ranjith and actors Siddique and Mukesh.

Mohanlal further addressed the media and the public and appealed not to tarnish the entire industry, stressing on the diligent work culture. ‘AMMA cannot answer all questions. Everyone involved needs to be questioned. It is a hardworking industry with many people, but not everyone should be blamed. Those responsible will face consequences. The investigation is underway and we cannot change the law for anyone; justice will be done,’ he stressed. ‘We will definitely complete the investigation. We cannot give a sudden solution. Issues faced by young artistes will also be addressed. With so many names coming forward, our hands are tied. We will fully support the investigation process. Our only aim is to set things right,’ he concluded. (ANI)

Also read: Crisis in scandal-hit Malayalam film industry worsens: AMMA governing body, including president Mohanlal, resigns

(With input from agencies.)