Actor Parvathy Thiruvothu said newcomers in the Malayalam film industry continue to face exploitation despite changes introduced after the Justice Hema Committee report, adding that many still work without formal contracts.
Speaking to The Indian Express, the founding member of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) said the industry's recent reforms have largely been driven by fear of public scrutiny rather than a genuine change in attitude.
Parvathy said one of the biggest achievements has been the establishment of Internal Complaints Committees by some production houses, as it reflects recognition of film sets as workplaces.
She alleged that newcomers are often told they are "like family" and encouraged to work without contracts, despite contributing to productions that generate revenue.
The actor also criticised what she described as the "deification" of male superstars, saying such power structures discourage newcomers from asserting their rights and enable exploitation.
According to Parvathy, the industry's powerful figures are now more cautious because they fear public criticism and "cancel culture". However, she warned that this change could be temporary if there are no consequences for misconduct.
She said issues such as the absence of contracts, inadequate sanitation facilities, delayed payments, and inhumane working hours are now being challenged more consistently.
Parvathy also spoke about the role of the Women in Cinema Collective in seeking institutional reforms. She said the group had approached the then Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan to demand policies and regulatory mechanisms for the film industry instead of relying on industry bodies.
While expressing dissatisfaction with the pace of reform, she said the collective remained committed to pursuing change.
Parvathy is currently awaiting the release of 'I, Nobody', directed by Nisam Basheer and co-starring Prithviraj Sukumaran, Hakkim Shahjahan, Ashokan, Vijayaraghavan and Madhupal. The film is scheduled to release on July 9.