Mammootty Reacts To Mollywood's #MeToo Row: 'There Is No Power Centre'

Amid controversy surrounding sexual assault allegations against prominent figures in the Malayalam film industry, veteran actor Mammootty has stated that there is "no power centre" in Mollywood.

In the midst of the controversy surrounding sexual assault allegations against prominent figures in the Malayalam film industry, veteran actor Mammootty has stated that there is "no power centre" in Mollywood and urged the police to conduct an honest investigation into the allegations. His comments follow a similar statement by Mohanlal, another leading actor, who denied being part of any power group in the industry and claimed he was unaware of such groups.

Mammootty denies presence of "power groups" in Malayalam film industry

In a Facebook post, 72-year-old Mammootty expressed that cinema mirrors society, encompassing both its virtues and vices. He referred to the Justice Hema Committee, which was established to address and suggest solutions following an incident that should never have occurred. Mammootty welcomed the committee's recommendations and noted that the police investigation is progressing swiftly. He emphasised that the complete Justice Hema Committee report is now before the court and called for the police to investigate honestly, leaving the courts to decide on appropriate punishments. He reiterated that there is no "powerhouse" in the film industry.

Mammootty also mentioned that it is customary for the actors' organisation to respond to such issues first, which is why he waited before making his statement.

About the Justice Hema Committee Report

The Malayalam film industry has been shaken by numerous allegations of sexual harassment and assault against some of its leading actors and filmmakers. Figures like Jayasurya Sidhique, Mukesh, Maniyanpilla Raju, Idavela Babu, and director Ranjith are among those facing accusations. Actresses Minu Muneer and Sonia Malhaar are among those who have come forward with serious allegations of abuse.

These revelations come on the heels of the public release of the Justice Hema Committee report, which highlights the control exerted by a small group of male producers, directors, and actors over the industry. The committee was formed by the state government in 2017 and submitted its report in 2019, but the report had been withheld from the public due to legal challenges.

In response to the growing scandal, the top leadership of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), led by Mohanlal as president, has stepped down, taking moral responsibility for the allegations against some of its members.

In a statement, Mohanlal acknowledged that the film industry must answer the questions raised but argued that AMMA is unfairly targeted and blamed for everything. He reiterated that AMMA is not a trade union but an organization dedicated to the welfare of its members and insisted it is unjust to hold the group solely responsible for the industry's issues. A Special Investigation Team has been formed to probe the allegations.