New Delhi [India], August 31 (ANI): The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Saturday sought the complete release of the Hema Committee Report, following the findings of the report hit the Malayalam film industry with sexual abuse allegations.
In an official press release, the NCW stated that the Commission had observed some “concern findings” in the Hema Committee Report, which points to some “serious issues” including “workplace harassment, gender-based discrimination, and other forms of exploitation that adversely affect women in the Malayalam film industry.”
“In response to these concerns, the NCW has taken steps to seek the complete Hema Committee Report, as it appears that only parts of it are currently available in the public domain. The Commission is committed to furthering its efforts in addressing these matters with the appropriate authorities to ensure that the rights of women are upheld and that a safe, equitable working environment is fostered within the industry,” the press release stated.
Earlier on August 19, the Kerala government made public the Justice K Hema Committee report on the working conditions of women in the Malayalam film industry. However, 63 pages of the initial 295-page report have been redacted before its release under the RTI Act.
The report, based on testimonies from 51 industry professionals, reveals shocking details about the exploitation of women, including the existence of casting couches and poor working conditions.
It states that harassment begins at the outset, with women being asked to make “adjustments” and “compromises”–euphemisms for sexual favours– to secure roles.
“According to women in cinema, harassment starts from the very inception. It is revealed from the statements of various witnesses who were examined before the committee that the production controller or whoever gives an offer for a role in the cinema first approaches the woman/girl or if it is the other way and a woman approaches any person in cinema seeking a chance in cinema, she is told that she has to make “adjustments” and “compromise” to take her in cinema.
“Compromise” and “adjustment” are two terms that are very familiar among women in the Malayalam film industry and by doing so, they are asked to make themselves available for sex on demand,” the report said.
The Committee also found that women are denied basic human rights, such as access to toilets and changing rooms, even on sets. Women often have to find secluded spots to change or use the bathroom during outdoor shoots, with no access to water or basic facilities. (ANI)
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