Mammootty Breaks Silence On Hema Committee Report: 'Need For Collective Action...'

In a critical and much-discussed Facebook post on Sunday, veteran Malayalam superstar Mammootty shared his thoughts on the findings of the Justice Hema Committee report, which brought to light the pervasive sexual abuse and appalling working conditions faced by women in the Malayalam film industry.

Mammootty's statement has drawn considerable attention, particularly his assertion that there are no "power centres" in cinema, challenging the idea of unchecked authority in the industry.

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/Mammootty

Mammootty expressed his full support for the recommendations outlined in the Hema Committee report, emphasising the need for collective action within the film industry to implement these suggestions.

He stated, "I wholeheartedly welcome and support the recommendations and solutions said in the Hema Committee report. It is time for all associations in the film industry to join hands and implement them. On the complaints that have been raised now police investigation is progressing."

He further underscored the importance of letting the legal process take its course, stating, "The full version of the Justice Hema Committee report is before the court. Let the police investigate honestly. Let the court decide the punishments."

In a bold statement about the power dynamics within the industry, Mammootty declared, "There is no 'powerhouse' in cinema. Cinema is not an arena where such things can exist. The practical recommendations of the Hema Committee report must be enacted if there are legal hurdles. Ultimately, cinema must survive."

Addressing why he had waited so long to comment on the findings of the report, Mammootty explained that he felt it was important for the leadership of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) to respond first.

He stated, "The organisation and its leadership should react first. I believe that I should give my opinion as a member only after their responses, that is why I waited this long."

The Justice Hema Committee report, which was recently made public in a redacted form, has sent shockwaves through the Malayalam film industry and beyond.

The 235-page document, published after removing the names of witnesses and the accused, details alarming accounts of harassment, exploitation, and mistreatment of women working in the industry.

The report highlights that the Malayalam film industry is largely controlled by a small group of about 10 to 15 male producers, directors, and actors who exert significant influence over its operations.

This report was the result of an investigation by a three-member panel headed by Justice Hema, a former judge of the Kerala High Court.

The committee was set up by the state government in 2017 following a series of allegations and public outcry regarding the treatment of women in the industry.

Despite being submitted to the Pinarayi Vijayan-led Kerala government in December 2019, the report was only made public this month.

Mammootty's response has been seen as a crucial endorsement of the need for change in the Malayalam film industry, echoing the sentiments of many who believe that the recommendations of the Hema Committee should be swiftly and fully implemented to ensure a safer and more equitable working environment for all.