August 29,2024: Kochi/Thiruvananthapuram — Top Malayalam Actors is grappling with a significant scandal as several high-profile figures face serious allegations of sexual harassment from the Malayalam film industry. In the wake of the revelations from the Justice K Hema Committee report, multiple FIRs have been filed against renowned actors and directors, prompting an extensive police investigation.
On Thursday, police in Ernakulam confirmed that an FIR was lodged against actor Maniyanpilla Raju at the Fort Kochi police station. The complaint alleges that Raju was involved in an incident of sexual harassment, with the case being registered under Section 354 of the Indian Penal Code. Similarly, the Cantonment police in Thiruvananthapuram have registered an FIR against actor Jayasoorya under the same section.
These legal actions are part of a broader wave of accusations surfacing in the Malayalam film industry. A female actor, who has appeared in a limited number of films, has accused several prominent figures, including actor M Mukesh, who is also a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA), Jayasoorya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and actor Idavela Babu. The allegations also extend to a production controller and other industry professionals.
In a detailed Facebook post, the complainant described ongoing physical and verbal abuse she allegedly endured from these individuals in 2013 while working on a film project. Her post names a total of six individuals involved in the abuse.
High-Profile Malayalam Actors Face Sexual Harassment Allegations: FIRs Filed Against Actors and Directors
The situation escalated further with the registration of a rape case against M Mukesh, following allegations of sexual assault that reportedly occurred years ago. Additionally, the Thiruvananthapuram Museum police have charged actor Sidhique with rape, based on accusations from eight years prior. Moreover, director Ranjith faces charges under IPC Section 354 following a complaint from a female actor from West Bengal regarding an incident in 2009. Ranjith has since resigned from his position as chairman of the Kerala Chalachitra Academy.
The Kerala government established the Justice K Hema Committee in response to the 2017 actress assault case. The committee’s findings have brought to light numerous instances of harassment and exploitation within the Malayalam film industry. In response to the recent allegations, the state government announced the formation of a special seven-member investigation team on August 25 to thoroughly probe the charges and bring those responsible to justice.
The unfolding scandal has sent shockwaves through the industry, underscoring the urgent need for systemic change and accountability in Kerala’s cinematic world.