Hema Committee Report: Second Case Filed Against Actor Jayasurya For Sexual Harassment

The Kerala Police have registered a fresh FIR against Malayalam actor Jayasurya based on a complaint filed by an actress.

Confirming the news to news agency ANI, the Kerala Police said: "Second FIR registered against actor Jayasurya under 354, 354A(A1)(I) 354D IPC. The case was registered after the complainant's statement was recorded. FIR has been registered in Thiruvananthapuram and will be transferred to Thodupuzha Police Station."

Several women have come up with allegations of sexual assault, rape and exploitation in the Malayalam film industry since the release of the Hema Committee report.

On Thursday, actress Sonia Malhar addressed the issue of mistreatment and exploitation she experienced during the early years of her career, revealing shocking incidents. Speaking to ANI, she recounted that after entering the industry in 2013, she encountered a troubling incident on a film set in Thodupuzha. Upon arriving at the location, she noticed that, unlike the usual practice where junior artists are not introduced to lead actors, she received some respect due to her social work background. Even the director greeted her personally and introduced her to the lead actor and actress, which she found unusual.

Sonia shared that after being asked to go for makeup and change into her costume, she was informed of a slight change in location. The makeup and costume room, along with toilet facilities, were situated in an old building nearby. When she returned from the toilet, someone unexpectedly grabbed her, leaving her terrified, though the person later apologized.

Following this incident, Sonia faced numerous challenges. She mentioned that payments for films she was working on were delayed, and she was replaced after the films had been announced in newspapers and on TV. When news of these replacements spread, a role that had been promised to her was given to someone else.

Sonia decided to speak out about these experiences after learning that actresses from other states had also faced similar mistreatment. She expressed her shame and disappointment, stating that it was disgraceful for a woman from another state to be treated without the respect she deserved. She further lamented that when a woman speaks out against the head of the Film Academy, some level of shame should be expected.

Sonia also shared that after the Hema Committee report was released, she was deeply hurt by the silence from many people in the industry.

The first FIR was registered against actor and CPI (M) MLA from Kollam, Mukesh M, following the complaint of actress Minu Muneer.

On August 28, first FIR was registered against actor and CPI (M) MLA from Kollam, Mukesh M, following the complaint of actress Minu Muneer. The police also stated that an additional FIR has been filed against actor Jayasurya based on the same actress's complaint, under Section 354, which pertains to intent to outrage modesty.