Prithviraj Sukumaran on Hema Committee report: Punish those who commit sexual abuse

During a recent press meet, Prithviraj Sukumaran, a leading actor in the Malayalam film industry, addressed the findings of the Hema Committee report, which investigated instances of harassment and exploitation within the industry. Prithviraj spoke out firmly on the need to take these findings seriously, emphasizing the importance of holding perpetrators accountable.

Prithviraj strongly advocated for serious repercussions for those involved in harassment within the film industry. He stated, "The findings in the report should be treated very seriously. It is important to punish those who have committed sexual abuse." He called for those facing harassment allegations to "step aside while facing such allegations," highlighting the necessity of removing individuals in positions of power who are implicated in these issues.

Also Read: Mohanlal resigns as AMMA President, all members of the committee quit
Prithviraj criticized the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) for their inadequate response to the findings of the Hema Committee. He said that AMMA had "erred in handling the issue" since the report's release, indicating his discontent with the organization's actions, or lack thereof, in addressing the concerns raised.
Reflecting on the report's revelations, Prithviraj mentioned that he was "not shocked" by its findings. He emphasized the importance of a safe work environment, stating, "My responsibility does not end with just ensuring that my movie location is safe; it is important that the entire industry is safe for people."

Prithviraj acknowledged the presence of problematic behavior within the Malayalam film industry. He remarked, "I cannot deny there are people within the Malayalam film industry who have banned those who speak out against them." He further stated, "Action should be taken if such an organized activity to ban artists is prevalent," recognizing the existence of power dynamics that can silence victims and calling for action against those who misuse their influence.
The Hema Committee was established by the Kerala government following an alleged assault case involving actor Dileep in 2017. The report detailed multiple instances of harassment and exploitation of women within the Malayalam film industry. The findings have sparked significant discussions and reactions, leading to increased scrutiny of the industry's practices.
In response to the report and subsequent revelations, Kerala's Chief Minister, Pinarayi Vijayan, set up a seven-member special team to investigate the atrocities reported by women in the film industry. This move was seen as a proactive step toward addressing the systemic issues highlighted by the Hema Committee.
Prithviraj's statements reflect a broader push within Mollywood to confront and eradicate abusive behaviors and create a safer working environment for all. His call for stringent measures and accountability aligns with a growing movement across film industries globally, where similar issues are being brought to light and addressed.
By speaking out, Prithviraj not only supports the victims but also encourages a culture of transparency and justice in the Malayalam film industry. His insistence that the entire industry, not just individual projects, needs to be a safe space, is a powerful message advocating for comprehensive reforms.