Kerala forms special team to investigate allegations of atrocities in Malayalam film industry

Crime News: In response to growing concerns about harassment in the Malayalam film industry, the Kerala government has established a special investigative team. The decision follows a high-level meeting led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, aimed at addressing the systemic issues highlighted by recent reports. The seven-member team, appointed to scrutinize these allegations, will be led by Inspector General Sparjan Kumar and includes four senior women IPS officers from the state.

Revelations from the Hema Committee report

The urgency to tackle these issues intensified after the release of the Hema Committee report. This 290-page document, compiled over several years under the leadership of retired Justice K.Hema and commissioned by the Kerala government in 2017, unveiled severe cases of harassment and exploitation within the Malayalam film industry. The report describes a pervasive culture of abuse and a "criminal nexus" that has compromised the safety and dignity of female professionals in the industry.

Notable figures resign 

In the wake of these revelations, notable figures in the industry have faced scrutiny. Director Ranjith Balakrishnan and actor Siddique have both resigned from their roles in the Kerala Chalachitra Academy and the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), respectively. Their resignations come amid allegations of misconduct, including a claim of inappropriate behavior by Ranjith, which he has vehemently denied, asserting that he is the "real victim."

Calls for justice

The Hema Committee's findings have spurred significant public and professional outcry, demanding accountability and reform within the Malayalam film industry. The newly formed special team is tasked with investigating these allegations thoroughly to ensure justice and prevent future occurrences of abuse.