The Hema Committee’s recently submitted report has unveiled alarming instances of sexual harassment within the South Indian film industries, leading to increased scrutiny and demands for transparency from other regional film sectors.

Last week, the Malayalam film industry was rocked by severe allegations of sexual assault and harassment against several prominent members, including well-known actors. The Hema Committee’s report has not only reignited the Me Too movement but also sparked vital discussions across other film industries, particularly the Telugu film industry. In response to these revelations, acclaimed actress Samantha Ruth Prabhu has publicly urged the Telangana government to release its own report on sexual harassment within the Telugu film sector.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu addressed the issue on Instagram, expressing her solidarity with the women of the Telugu film industry and applauding the relentless efforts of the Women’s Collective in Cinema (WCC) in Kerala. She stated, “We, the women of the Telugu film industry, welcome the Hema Committee report and applaud the persistent efforts of the WCC in Kerala, which has laid the path to this moment. We hereby urge the Telangana government to publish the submitted sub-committee report on sexual harassment, which can help frame government and industry policies to establish a safe working environment for women in the TFI (Telugu Film Industry).”

In contrast, Talasani Srinivas Yadav, former Minister of Cinematography, commented on the Telugu film industry’s report to the Indian Express, saying, “The sub-committee did a lot of work and interviewed many people, but the report did not provide anything specific that required action.”

One of the sub-committee members, Kondaveeti Satyavati, a prominent women’s rights activist and project director of Bhumika Women’s Collective, revealed that crucial issues were not adequately addressed in the report. She explained, “Sexual quid pro quo is rampant in the Telugu film industry. We spoke to individuals across all 24 crafts identified in the film industry—from junior artists to support staff—and our findings are there in the report. We cannot disclose the details; that is the government’s responsibility. The present government should release the report.” She further emphasized the lack of accountability within the industry, stating, “There is no one to take complaints, especially about sexual harassment. Sexual favours are sought to give work. Junior female artists are the most exploited.”

The call for transparency and action has gained momentum as voices within and outside the industry demand systemic changes to protect women from exploitation and harassment. As more reports and testimonies surface, there is a growing consensus that immediate and effective measures are crucial to creating a safer working environment for women in South Indian cinema.

Additionally, prominent actor Mammootty has also broken his silence on the ongoing sexual misconduct allegations within the Malayalam industry, urging that legal proceedings be allowed to determine appropriate punishments.

Stay tuned for further updates on Bollywood Hungama for the latest news on Bollywood, new movie releases, box office collections, entertainment news, and upcoming movies for 2024. Stay informed about all developments in Hindi cinema only on Bollywood Hungama.