Justice Hema Committee highlights women's issues in Malayalam film industry

Committee, established in response to a petition from Women in Cinema Collective (WCC)

Troubling aspect of report is prevalence of demands for "compromise" and "adjustment"

A recent report by the Justice Hema Committee has brought to light disturbing conditions faced by women in the Malayalam film industry, sparking a broader conversation on gender equality and workplace exploitation. The committee, established in response to a petition from the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC), was formed following the high-profile sexual assault case involving a female actor in Kerala.

Also read: Teaser of ‘The Buckingham Murders’ unveiled: A gripping murder mystery starring Kareena Kapoor

The committee’s mandate was to investigate the challenges women face in the industry, including working conditions, remuneration, and participation in technical roles. Despite facing obstacles, such as difficulty contacting industry insiders and delays in responses, the committee uncovered widespread issues of harassment and unsafe working environments.

The report reveals that women in cinema often encounter harassment from the very start of their careers. A troubling aspect of the report is the prevalence of demands for “compromise” and “adjustment,” terms often used to pressure women into sexual favours in exchange for roles. Additionally, women actors report feeling unsafe in their accommodations, with men frequently knocking on their doors in a threatening manner.

The report also underscores the fear among victims of sexual assault, who often avoid reporting incidents due to potential threats and public embarrassment. A powerful nexus of producers, directors, actors, and production controllers is said to control the industry, further silencing victims.

The Justice Hema Committee’s findings call for urgent reforms to ensure a safer, more equitable environment for women in Malayalam cinema.