 |
|
The Justice Hema Committee report, released after a four-and-a-half-year delay, shines a stark light on the pervasive issue of sexual harassment within the Malayalam film industry. The report, compiled by a three-member commission headed by Justice K Hema, explores the systemic problems faced by women working in Malayalam cinema, including sexual harassment, lack of basic facilities, gender bias, and remuneration disparities. A chilling revelation in the report highlights the ordeal of a female actor who had to work alongside a man who had previously abused her, enduring the trauma of shooting hugging scenes with her assaulter. The report poignantly captures the emotional distress of the actress, stating that "her resentment and hatred had reflected during shooting."
The report further delves into the prevalent assumption within the film industry that women are solely driven by money and are willing to compromise for career advancement. This toxic mindset, according to the report, blinds men to the passion and artistic drive that motivates women in film. The committee's investigation uncovered the chilling reality that women who dare to speak out against harassment are often labelled as ‘problem-makers’ and ostracized by the industry. The report underscores the culture of silence that prevails, where women fear open discussion of their experiences due to the potential for backlash and career sabotage. This silence, perpetuated by the fear of ostracization and the prevalence of cyberbullying and trolling, creates a suffocating environment where women are forced to endure abuse in silence.
The Hema Committee report serves as a crucial wake-up call for the Malayalam film industry. It exposes the deeply ingrained issues of power imbalances, systemic bias, and a culture of silence that has allowed abuse to flourish. The report's findings demand immediate action to address the deeply embedded problems and ensure a safer and more equitable working environment for women in Malayalam cinema. The Malayalam film industry must take concrete steps to address the systemic issues identified in the report, including establishing robust mechanisms for reporting and addressing complaints, fostering a culture of respect and accountability, and providing support services for survivors of harassment. Only through such proactive measures can the industry begin to dismantle the culture of silence and create a truly inclusive and safe space for women to thrive.