Hema Committee Report: Malayalam actor Siddiqui files complaint against Revathi Sampath, who accused him of sexual harassment – 8 important things to know
The Justice Hema Committee report compiled the testimonies of many women who have spent their careers in the industry.
Mollywood, popularly known as the Malayalam film industry, has recently come under the limelight due to the Justice Hema Committee report. Notably, actor and producer Siddiqui, best known for his roles in films like Drishyam and 2018, found himself at the center of controversy. On Monday, the actress, who has been accused of sexual misconduct, filed a complaint against her and pursued legal measures.
His complaint has been officially submitted to the Director General of Police, Kerala. Moreover, well-known Malayalam actor Shammi Thilakan openly expressed his differences with Mollywood megastar Mohanlal, who holds the position as the leader of the Malayalam Movie Artistes Association (AMMA).
He expressed that Mohanlal had lost his ability to react due to allegations of sexual misconduct. The Justice Hema committee report includes several testimonies from women in the industry. Interestingly, it uses the word “girls” in some situations, hinting at the possible involvement of minor victims. This further highlights the severe lack of basic facilities for women such as changing rooms and toilets.
Reports surfaced about incidents of sexual misconduct in the Malayalam film industry
- A young woman came forward alleging that Siddiqui violated her in 2016. Adding to her shocking revelation, she shared that the actor called her 'Molly' and referred to her as his own daughter.
- The actress told The Indian Express that she was devastated by the incident. She revealed that she first met Siddique online, where they messaged and he seemed to suggest a role in a film, but only if she agreed to meet him in person.
- Their paths crossed at a hotel in Thiruvananthapuram, where she claimed he 'asked her to do him a favour'. According to the woman, Siddiqui targeted her intimately in the hotel room and further subjected her to witness her acts of intimacy.
- Actor Shammi Thilakan expressed his apprehension and warned that those responsible will face the consequences. He also pointed to the Hema Committee report, indicating that it supported the existence of the so-called 'Power Group'. According to him, this report provides enough clues to unravel the identity of the members of this group.
- Director Ranjith recently resigned as the president of the Kerala Film Academy. Simultaneously, well-known actor Siddiqui resigned from his post in the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA). The reason behind Ranjith's resignation was the serious sexual misconduct allegations leveled against him by the Bengali actor.
- The Kerala High Court recently directed the Pinarayi Vijayan-led government to submit a comprehensive report to the court, sealed confidentially in a sealed envelope, by September 10.
- In November 2017, a prominent Malayalam film actress was abducted and attacked by a group of five in a moving vehicle following the formation of the Justice Hema Committee. The situation unfolded and was filmed by some boys who later abandoned her at an unknown location. Later the authorities were informed about the incident.
- Justice Hema, who once served as a High Court judge, headed the Justice Hema Committee. The committee also included famous actress Sharda and retired IAS officer KB Valsala Kumari.