‘We must take action to ensure a safe, respectful and dignified working environment’

Actor Adil Hussain is known for his versatile roles in films. He was last seen in Ulajh with Janhvi Kapoor and Gulshan Devaiah. He recently spoke about the Hema Committee report, which revealed shocking stories of sexual exploitation, unlawful bans, discrimination and inhuman working conditions in the Malayalam film industry.

The English Vinglish actor feels that the Hema committee report is crucial and action must be taken against those who exploit the workplace. Speaking to Bollywood Life, he said, “The Hema committee report is crucial and we must take action to ensure a safe, respectful and dignified working environment, especially in the film industry. If artists cannot respect basic human rights, it is extremely outrageous and unacceptable.”

He was also asked about the measures that can be taken in the industry for the safety of women. In response, he said, “I am not sure that the measures that most people in the film industry are taking are great. But it is essential for some people in the film industry to educate themselves about respecting basic human rights and decency, but some need to learn.”

A day earlier, Berlin actor Rahul Bose spoke out about the Hema Committee Report. He believes that everyone is talking about it because it is in the news, and that you should not only talk about one industry, but about all other sectors, such as banking, law or even accounts.

Rahul further suggested that everyone form a committee, conduct an audit and create awareness.

What is the Hema Commission report?

The Kerala government commissioned the Hema Report, also known as the Justice Hema Committee Report, to investigate the working conditions of women in the Malayalam cinema industry.

It exposes disturbing truths about the Malayalam cinema industry, such as the fact that many women are pressured to give sexual favours to get roles. Following the report’s release, several members of the industry came forward and voiced their support for the fight against abuse. Reportedly, Kerala police registered FIRs against 11 people, including nine from the film industry, based on complaints filed by actresses.

On the work front, Adil will be next seen in the Assamese feature film Sikaar. The film also stars Zubeen Garg and Urmila Mahanta in lead roles. The film is directed by Debangkar Borgohain and produced by Sam Bhattacharjee and Mitra Bhattacharya. It is slated to release on September 20.