Two days after allegations of sexual abuse surfaced against several actors in the Malayalam film industry, Brinda Karat, a CPI(M) Politburo member, responded with harsh words against CPI(M) MLA Mukesh, who has also been one of the accused, and congratulated the bravery of the women who came forward.
Karat also underlined the need for the accused to be ‘named and shamed’, terming it one of the crucial parts of the women’s movement against the sexual abuse practices existing in the film industry.
Annie Raja, a senior leader of the CPI, has also spoken out on the matter, emphasising the need for addressing sexual misconduct in the industry.
The allegations came to light when two women professionals from the industry publicly accused multiple actors, with Mukesh being one of the prominent names. The accusations have triggered widespread discussions about the pervasive nature of sexual harassment within the film industry, particularly in Kerala. The allegations have also cast a shadow over Mukesh's political career, with calls for his resignation growing louder.
She noted that the accusations against Mukesh involved verbal sexual abuse, which she described as deeply disturbing. Karat expressed her support for the women who have come forward with their allegations, praising their bravery and courage. She highlighted the role of the Hema Committee report in exposing the widespread issues of sexual harassment and exploitation within the film industry.
The Hema Committee, set up to investigate the working conditions and harassment faced by women in the Malayalam film industry, has shed light on various issues, including the lack of contracts, poor working conditions, and the exploitation of women.
Karat welcomed the findings of the report, which she described as a significant step towards addressing the malaise in the industry. She also supported the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) by the Kerala government to investigate the complaints that have emerged in the wake of the report.
Karat reiterated that her party, along with its affiliated organisations like the All India Democratic Women's Association (AIDWA), stands firmly with the women who have come forward with their complaints. She also acknowledged the efforts of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) in providing strong support to the victims.
The WCC, a group advocating for gender equality in the film industry, has been at the forefront of the movement, encouraging women to speak out against harassment and abuse.
As the pressure mounts on Mukesh, Annie Raja has called for his resignation from the Kerala Legislative Assembly. Raja argued that for a fair and impartial investigation to take place, it is essential that Mukesh steps down from his public office.
She pointed out that the allegations against him have emerged in the context of the Hema Committee report, which has prompted several women artists to come forward with their experiences.
Raja also emphasised the responsibility of those aligned with the Left Front in Kerala to support the government's efforts to create a safer environment for women in the film industry. She stressed that Mukesh's resignation would demonstrate his willingness to cooperate with the investigation and contribute to the broader goal of making the industry a secure space for women.
CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam echoed these sentiments, underscoring the need for justice for the victims. He referenced a 2013 Supreme Court judgment, which mandates the police to register a First Information Report (FIR) when any information suggests the commission of a cognisable offence. Viswam suggested that the police must adhere to this directive in the case against Mukesh, ensuring that the allegations are thoroughly investigated.