Ensure Punishment To Deter Offenders: 'GOAT' Director Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations In Malayalam Films

Director Venkat Prabhu has emerged as the first prominent figure from the Tamil film industry to the sexual harassment allegations following the release of the Hema Committee Report in Kerala. As he prepares for the release of his upcoming film 'GOAT' with Thalapathy Vijay, Prabhu has spoken out about the urgent need for the Tamil film industry to confront these allegations directly.

Speaking to NDTV, Prabhu spoke about the importance of creating a safer working environment for women in the industry, noting his personal stake as a father. "I have two daughters. We need a safer place for women," he stated, calling for action to ensure that those who commit such offenses are held accountable. "Ensure punishment so men will be scared to do what they do," he added.

Acknowledging that sexual harassment is a widespread issue across various industries, Prabhu pointed out that the cinema industry often attracts more media attention. "Women go through the same in all industries, including media, IT, and sports," he said, underscoring the universality of the problem.

When questioned about whether the Tamil film industry should have responded more decisively to singer Chinmayi's allegations of sexual harassment against lyricist Vairamuthu and actor Radha Ravi, Prabhu said that the industry is taking steps to address these cases. "The Tamil film industry is taking care of it," he claimed. Chinmayi Reacts However, Chinmayi said,. "I don't know how the industry is taking care of it."

The singer responded to Prabhu's remarks, expressing her respect for him as an individual but disagreeing with his assessment of the industry's response. "Venkat Prabhu is someone I personally like as a person, but he is wrong when he says the industry is doing something. It isn't. FEFSI hasn't done anything - neither issued a directive to make things safe for women at any workplace," she said, criticizing the lack of tangible action from the Film Employees Federation of South India (FEFSI).

It is worth noting that Chinmayi has consistently alleged that she was a victim of molestation by lyricist Vairamuthu and she has got least support from the industry.

Meanwhile, Venkat Prabhu's 'GOAT' will hit the screens worldwide on September 5. The movie has Prashanth, Prabhu Deva, and others in the cast.