Radhika Kumaraswamy On Casting Couch & Sexual Assault Allegations In Films: No Woman Should Face Such Issues

Actress Radhika Kumaraswamy has addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the Hema Committee report in Kerala, asserting that she has never encountered sexual harassment in her career. In an interview with TV9, Radhika stated, "I have never been sexually harassed. However, I did face a troubling experience early in my career."

She recounted an incident during her initial days in the film industry when she encountered an uncomfortable situation involving torn stockings. "While shooting, the stockings I was provided with tore. When I requested a replacement, I was publicly insulted," Radhika explained. Despite this early setback, she emphasized that her experiences in the industry have not involved sexual harassment.

Radhika urged that any instances of sexual harassment within the industry should be met with strong opposition and accountability. "If such incidents are occurring, we all need to unite and demand justice," she said. "No woman should face such issues in the Kannada film industry."

The Malayalam film industry has been rocked by controversy following the release of the Justice Hema Committee report on August 19, 2024. The report has revealed widespread discrimination, sexual harassment, and unethical working conditions within the industry, leading to numerous allegations of sexual assault, rape, and exploitation.

Radhika Kumaraswamy's comments come amidst this turmoil, highlighting her personal stance against harassment and calling for systemic change to ensure a safer environment for all professionals in the film industry.

Meanwhile, A section of Kannada actors, writers and directors have demanded a Justice K Hema committee-like panel to look into issues faced by women in Sandalwood.

"While FIRE has been instrumental in establishing India's first-ever film industry Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) in the Kannada Film Industry and advocating for survivors of sexual harassment (2017-present), we recognise that more comprehensive measures are needed to create a safe and equitable working environment for all women in the industry," the forum said in a statement on Wednesday.

The letter was signed by 153 notable personalities including FIRE president Kavita Lankesh, Ramya (Divya Spandana), Shruthi Hariharan, and senior counsel Jayna Kothari.