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The Malayalam film industry is currently embroiled in a controversy surrounding allegations of sexual harassment against several prominent figures. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) led by a woman IPS officer is likely to be formed to conduct a preliminary inquiry into these allegations, which have escalated into a political storm in the state of Kerala. The decision to form the SIT comes after several women publicly named actors and filmmakers, including Siddique, Edavela Babu, Ranjith, Mukesh, Sudheesh, and Riyas Khan, for sexually harassing or misbehaving with them.
The initial reluctance of the Kerala government to take action on these allegations, citing the need for a formal complaint or legally relevant materials, has drawn criticism from the Opposition. They argue that the government's inaction is a sign of favoritism towards the alleged perpetrators. The government's change of stance and the subsequent formation of the SIT can be attributed to the mounting pressure from the Opposition, who have threatened legal action in the case.
The investigation by the SIT will be conducted under Section 173(1) of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, which mandates that a woman police officer handle cases of sexual harassment. The SIT is expected to complete its preliminary inquiry within 14 days, determining whether there is sufficient evidence to proceed with a formal investigation. The outcome of this investigation will have significant repercussions for the Malayalam film industry and the broader fight against sexual harassment in India. It will also serve as a test of the government's commitment to addressing such issues.
Source: SIT headed by woman IPS officer may probe allegations of sexual harassment in Malayalam cinema