President Mohanlal, along with the 17-member committee of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), has resigned, taking moral responsibility after the explosive Hema Committee report was made public. The report has led to multiple sexual abuse allegations against members of the governing body.
Response to Sexual Harassment Allegations
The resignation on August 27 came after several actors accused filmmakers, actors, and technicians of sexual misconduct following the release of the Hema Committee report on August 19. AMMA announced that a new leadership would be selected soon, with a general body meeting planned within two months.
Committee Members Who Resigned
The committee members who stepped down include prominent actors such as Jagadish, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Tovino Thomas, Jayan Cherthala, Baburaj, and several others. AMMA expressed hope that the new leadership will strengthen the association.
Revelations from the Hema Committee Report
The Hema Committee report shed light on rampant sexual harassment, casting couch practices, pay disparities, exploitation, and lobbying in the Malayalam film industry. The report has led to a series of allegations against senior actors and filmmakers, causing significant disruption within the industry.
Siddique’s Resignation Amid Allegations
Actor Siddique, who was the General Secretary of AMMA, resigned after a female actor accused him of sexual misconduct. In a public statement, Siddique confirmed his decision, citing the allegations as the reason for stepping down. Following the release of the Hema Committee report, several high-profile actors, including Mohanlal, Mammootty, and Fahadh Faasil, have faced criticism for their silence on the issues raised in the report.