The Hema Committee Report, established to address the safety and rights of women in the Kerala film industry has highlighted the persistent issues of sexual harassment and the broader neglect of basic rights faced by women in cinema. This report, which has sparked significant debate, is now pushing women in the Tamil film industry to demand similar reforms, including the establishment of a tribunal to address women's grievances.
The Hema Committee and Its Findings
The Hema Committee was formed by the Kerala government in 2017 following a high-profile incident where an actress was allegedly assaulted at the behest of actor Dileep. The committee was established in response to mounting pressure from the Women in Cinema Collective, a group advocating for better working conditions for women in the film industry. Led by former Kerala High Court judge K Hema, the committee also included veteran actor T Sarada and retired Principal Secretary KB Valsalakumari.
The Hema Committee’s findings paint a stark picture of the misogyny and power imbalances entrenched in the industry. The report reveals not only widespread sexual abuse but also a systemic disregard for women's rights, with many facing exploitation, discrimination, and a hostile work environment. While the report refrains from naming specific perpetrators, it has led to renewed accusations against several high-profile industry figures, including filmmakers Ranjith, Siddique, Baburaj, and Saajin Babu. In response, the Kerala government has constituted a seven-member panel of senior police officers to investigate the allegations further.
Voices of Survivors: Casting Couch in South Cinema
Tamil Nadu Minister Saminathan on Thursday (August 29) stated, "Unlike the sexual abuse complaints in the Kerala film industry, no such complaints have been reported in Tamil Nadu. If any do arise, appropriate action will be taken."
Even before the release of Hema Committee Report, several actors in South Indian cinema have shared their own experiences with the casting couch and industry exploitation. Notable voices include Varalaxmi Sarathkumar, daughter of actor-turned-politician Sarathkumar, and Aishwarya Rajesh, known for her role in Kaaka Muttai.
Varalaxmi Sarathkumar publicly recounted an incident on Twitter, describing how a programming head of a TV channel made veiled requests for sexual favors during a professional meeting. Actress Sri Reddy has also been vocal about her experiences, while Aishwarya Rajesh, in an interview, stated that the casting couch is a prevalent issue in the industry. “Initially, I did face this a lot. It will sound disgusting to even listen to the kind of things people say,” she shared, as per a report on India Today.
Television actress Sreenithi, known for her role in Senthoorapoove on Vijay TV, revealed that she and her mother were asked for "adjustments" to secure film roles, highlighting the pervasive nature of exploitation.
Kollywood’s Response to Hema Committee Report
The Hema Committee's findings have resonated beyond Kerala, sparking calls for similar protective measures in the Tamil film industry. Actor and BJP leader Khushbu Sundar, a former member of the National Commission for Women, urged women to stand up against exploitation. “This should be a wake-up call to ALL. Let the exploitation stop here. Women, come out and speak. Your NO is definitely a NO. Never adjust or compromise on your dignity and respectability. EVER,” she said.
However, singer Chinmayi Sripaada, who was one of the prominent voices during India’s #MeToo movement, expressed skepticism about the possibility of a similar committee in Tamil Nadu. She remarked, “Tamilians ask why I didn’t file a complaint. This is proof I did. Even if they do, they’ll create a report that says the Tamil industry is safe, no harassment reported.”
Activist Shalin Maria Lawrence echoed Chinmayi’s concerns, stating, “There is no possibility of a Hema committee in Tamil cinema. At least in Kerala, it’s happening.” Singer Soundarya Bala Nandakumar criticised the lack of discussion about the Hema Committee report in Tamil Nadu, questioning the silence of prominent voices in the industry.
Hema Committee To Be Formed In Tamil Cinema
The push for a tribunal to address women's issues in Tamil cinema has gained traction, with Vishal, General Secretary of the South Indian Artistes' Association, vowing to form a similar committee. “Like the Hema Commission, a committee will be formed in Tamil. We are not the police, but action will be taken if any actress complains. Arrangements are being made to form a committee like the Hema Committee,” he stated, as per ABP Nadu.
He emphasised that the actor's union is now equally committed to addressing the concerns of women. “In Tamil Nadu, we are doing something with a team of 10 people. Preparations are underway. Now the actor's union is not just for men but also for women.”
Calls For Change
As the Hema Committee Report has ignited a crucial conversation about the treatment of women in the South Indian film industry, it has also highlighted the urgent need for reforms that go beyond addressing individual cases of abuse.
While Kerala has taken steps towards acknowledging and investigating these issues, the Tamil film industry faces pressure to follow suit and create a safer, more equitable environment for its female artists.