Actor Mukesh M, also a CPI (M) MLA from Kollam, has been booked for rape following a complaint filed by actress Minu Muneer. This development comes amid a series of allegations against well-known figures in the Malayalam film industry.Minu Muneers ComplaintMinu Muneer has alleged that the abuse she suffered drove her to leave the Malayalam film industry and move to Chennai. Muneer has accused Mukesh M, along with actors Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Idavela Babu, of verbal and physical abuse during their collaborative work on various films. The allegations, which date back to 2013, were initially shared on Muneers Facebook page.I am writing to report a series of incidents of physical and verbal abuse I suffered at the hands of Mukesh, Maniyanpilla Raju, Idavela Babu, Jayasurya, Advocate Chandrasekharan, production controller Noble, and Vichu.Mukesh Ms ResponseMukesh M has firmly denied the allegations, claiming that Muneer attempted to blackmail him. He described the case as politically motivated, drawing parallels to a similar situation he faced in 2018. In a press release, Mukesh stated:In response to the allegations raised against me and other film industry colleagues, I welcome the ongoing investigations. A fair and transparent inquiry is crucial to uncovering the truth behind the accusations being discussed in the public domain.Mukesh asserted that Muneer had sought financial aid from him under false pretenses.Legal DevelopmentsThe Kerala Police have filed an FIR against actor Jayasurya based on Muneers complaint, citing Section 354 of the IPC, which addresses the intent to outrage modesty. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has also taken Muneers statement.In her account to ANI, Muneer described an incident with Jayasurya:Once, as I was coming out from the toilet, Jayasurya hugged me from behind and even kissed me forcefully. After that, Idavela Babu expressed his interest in a sexual relationship with me.Muneer also recounted inappropriate suggestions made by Maniyanpilla Raju concerning her hotel accommodation.Industry Reactions and Report FindingsThese allegations have surfaced alongside the release of a redacted version of the Justice Hema Committee report, which exposes rampant harassment and exploitation in the Malayalam film industry. The report highlights a power nexus among male figures within the industry who control its operations and opportunities.In response to the growing controversy, director Ranjith and actor Siddique have resigned from their positions in the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), which has been temporarily dissolved due to the ongoing allegations.Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the formation of a SIT to address the public outcry and media scrutiny. The Chief Minister stated:“In light of recent interviews and statements from several women in the Malayalam film industry detailing the hardships they have faced, we have convened a meeting with senior police officials to ensure a thorough investigation.”
