The Justice Hema Committee Report has opened a pandora’s box for not just the Malayalam Film industry, it has also stirred a demand to undertake similar initiatives for cinema industries in other states including Telugu Film Industry. The shocking findings of the report which was released after a long gap of five years have led to a cascading effect and great ramifications for the Cinema industry. Here is a detailed explainer of the origin, key findings, and the aftermath of Justice Hema Committee’s Report on sexual abuse, the casting couch, the pay gap, and other issues in the Cinema Industry. https://www.opindia.com/2024/09/origin-key-findings-and-aftermath-of-justice-hema-committee-report/
Origin of the Hema Committee Report and the delay in its publication
The Kerala government established the Justice Hema Committee in February 2017 after a heinous case of sexual assault of an actress came to light. Notably, a prominent Malayalam actress was kidnapped, sexually assaulted, and filmed in a moving car. The Investigations revealed that actor Dileep had allegedly orchestrated the attack to “teach her a lesson.”
After the survivor identified herself on social media, the industry witnessed a major upheaval which led to the formation of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC). The WCC filed a petition to investigate the challenges faced by women in the Malayalam film industry following the actress’ sexual assault case. Based on their petition, the Kerala government set up a three-member committee. This was headed by retired Justice K. Hema and the committee was named after its head. It also comprised former actor Sharada, and retired IAS officer K.B. Valsala Kumari. It submitted its report to the government on 31st December 2019.
Major findings of Hema Committee Report
The Justice Hema Committee Report has revealed horrid tales of sexual abuse, illegal bans, discrimination, drug and alcohol abuse, wage disparity, and inhuman working conditions, especially for women. According to the report, the Cinema industry is male-dominated and has become an exclusive Boys’ Club.
by Paurush Gupta
01/09/2024