Malayalam actor Minu Muneer accuses four co-stars of sexual harassment on film set

New Delhi: Malayalam film actor Minu Muneer has accused prominent actors M Mukesh, Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Idavela Babu of sexual harassment. Her allegations come amid the ongoing controversy following the Justice K Hema Committee's findings on widespread harassment and abuse of women in the South Indian film industry.

What are accusations of Malayalam actor?

In a Facebook post on Monday, Muneer detailed the harassment she endured on the set of a 2013 movie. She claimed that these four actors physically and verbally abused her, making it impossible for her to continue working in the Malayalam film industry. "I was subjected to physical and verbal abuse by these individuals. The abuse became unbearable, forcing me to leave the industry and relocate to Chennai," Muneer wrote. She added that when she spoke out against the abuse, she was accused of not making "adjustments."

Public outcry, political reactions

Following her revelations, activists from Yuva Morcha and Mahila Congress marched to actor Mukesh's residence in Kollam, demanding legal action against him. Mukesh, who is also a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the ruling CPI(M), has yet to respond to these allegations.

Calls for investigation

Maniyanpilla Raju, one of the accused actors, has called for a thorough investigation, asserting that vested interests might be exploiting the situation. "There are innocent and guilty parties among those accused. A comprehensive investigation is necessary," he said.

Government response

In response to the mounting pressure, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan convened a high-level meeting with senior police officials and announced the formation of a seven-member special team to investigate the allegations. Actor Soniya Malhar, speaking to NDTV, emphasized the urgency of the situation, noting that victims have repeatedly shared their experiences with authorities. "We need immediate action from both the Centre and the state government," she urged.

Hema Committee findings

The Justice Hema Committee, established by the Kerala government following the 2017 actress assault case, has uncovered numerous instances of harassment and exploitation of women in the Malayalam film industry. These findings have sparked widespread calls for accountability and action against the perpetrators.