Exploitation of women, ‘punishment’ for those who say ‘no’… Justice Hema Committee exposed the filth of Mollywood hidden behind the glamour

New Delhi: The report of the Justice Hema Committee, which investigated the incidents of sexual exploitation and harassment of women in the Malayalam film industry, has revealed the bitter truth of this industry. The report describes how for decades female artists have been facing sexual exploitation, threats and discrimination in exchange for work. The report also emphasizes that some powerful people in the industry work like a ‘mafia’ and even ban women who protest.

Pressure to have sex in exchange for work

According to the report, women who come to the Malayalam film industry in search of work are often made to use words like compromise and adjustment. These words are actually used to put pressure on them to have sex in exchange for work. In the report, many women told how as soon as they enter the industry, they are made to realize that they have to give ‘something’ to get work. They are also told that all the big actresses of the industry are at this position today because they have made such ‘compromises’.

‘Ready to do anything for money and fame’

In its report, the committee has said that there is ample evidence that the notion has been spread in the industry that women who want to work in films only want money and fame and are ready to do anything for it. Many women testified that if they refuse to accept these demands, they have to face the entire industry. They stop getting work, they receive threats and propaganda is spread against them on social media.

Drunk people knock on the door at midnight

The report also mentions incidents of midnight door knocking in hotels, which happens during outdoor shoots. Many women reported that drunken men knock on their doors at night and try to break in. The report also expressed concern that fan clubs are often used to intimidate women. Fan clubs make lewd comments on social media against women who raise their voice against a star or a favorite person in the industry, upload tampered photos and videos of them and spread false rumors about them.

The rich and powerful have control

The report also revealed that about 10 to 15 people, all men and extremely rich and powerful, control the Malayalam film industry. This group can stop anyone from working in the industry. After their ban, all doors of the industry are closed for that person. Many witnesses told the committee that some big stars also suffered losses just because they had ‘displeased’ a member of this group.

Junior artists are treated badly

The report also mentions the ill-treatment of junior artists. They are often not allowed to go to the toilet, are not paid on time and are also deprived of food and drinks. The report says that female junior artists are most vulnerable to sexual abuse due to low pay and poor working conditions.

Many times the actress gets cheated

The report also highlights that till 2000, there was no written contract between the producer and the artist or director in Malayalam cinema. Taking advantage of this, actresses were often cheated. They were forced to shoot intimate scenes for which they were not ready. This report highlights the culture of exploitation and harassment prevalent in the Malayalam film industry. The report has demanded strict laws for the safety of women and bringing transparency in the industry.