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The Malayalam film industry has been rocked by a series of resignations and calls for reform following the release of a report detailing widespread sexual harassment and abuse of women. The report, compiled by the Justice K Hema committee, unveiled a deeply troubling culture of exploitation on movie sets, during auditions, and within the industry's power structures, exposing the prevalent “casting couch” phenomenon. This revelation triggered a wave of #MeToo allegations against prominent figures in the industry, ultimately leading to the resignation of actor Mohanlal as president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).
Mohanlal's resignation, announced on Tuesday, followed a tumultuous period for AMMA. The committee's report had sparked outrage and calls for accountability, with many criticizing AMMA for its perceived inaction in addressing the issues raised. The executive committee, which included several members under scrutiny for sexual abuse, was subsequently dissolved. The decision to dissolve the committee and call for new leadership was reached after an online meeting where a divide emerged within the organization. While some members advocated for continuing the “fight” against these issues, others, including Mohanlal, felt that the entire committee should step down to pave the way for a new and potentially more responsive leadership.
The resignation of Mohanlal and the dissolution of the executive committee signal a shift in the power dynamics within AMMA. The organization, founded in 1994, boasts a membership of 498 individuals, including 245 women. The recent events have sparked a demand for a more inclusive and representative leadership, with calls for a 50% reservation for women in the newly elected committee. Dubbing artist Bhagya Lakshmi spearheaded this demand, while former AMMA office-bearer Shwetha Menon echoed the sentiment for a younger leadership. The Women in Cinema Collective, a prominent group advocating for women's rights in the industry, welcomed the resignations, urging for a “rethink, reshape, rebuild” approach to create a more just and equitable future.
The developments in the Malayalam film industry highlight the ongoing struggle for justice and accountability in the face of systemic abuse and harassment. The resignations and calls for reform represent a significant step towards addressing the deeply ingrained culture of exploitation. However, the path ahead requires sustained efforts towards creating a safer and more inclusive environment for women in the industry, ensuring that their voices are heard and their rights are protected.
Source: Mohanlal quits as president of Kerala actors' body, executive panel dissolved