Kerala HC Orders State to Submit Full Hema Committee Report

On 22nd August 2024, the Kerala High Court ordered the state to submit the entire Hema Committee report, including redacted sections, in a sealed cover while considering a PIL for criminal proceedings against offenders named in the report.

Key Points

Background: The Justice Hema Committee was formed after the 2017 abduction and assault of a leading Malayalam actress, highlighting the rampant discrimination and exploitation of women in the Malayalam film industry.
Delay in Report Release: The report, submitted in December 2019, was released nearly five years later, with critics accusing the government of protecting powerful individuals in the industry. The delay was attributed to concerns over the sensitive information it contained.
Key Findings: The report exposes a pervasive culture of sexual harassment in the Malayalam film industry, including the casting couch, vulgar comments, and the fear of retribution preventing women from reporting abuse.
Industry Power Dynamics: The report describes an all-male "mafia" of influential actors and producers controlling the industry, leading to a culture of silence and impunity.
Lack of Basic Facilities: The report highlights the lack of basic facilities for women on film sets, including toilets and changing rooms, forcing women to use open spaces or shared bathrooms, often risking health issues.
High Court’s Directive: The High Court's directive to submit the full report may influence ongoing discussions on accountability and reforms in the Malayalam film industry.