AMMA Committee and Mohanlal Resign Amid Sexual Assault Allegations Following Hema Committee Report
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/27th August 2024
In a significant development in the Malayalam film industry, Mohanlal and the 17-member executive committee of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) have resigned from their positions, citing a sense of moral responsibility. This decision comes in the wake of a controversial report by the Hema Committee, which has exposed widespread issues of sexual harassment within the industry.
On August 27, Mohanlal, who served as the President of AMMA, alongside his committee, announced their resignation after sexual abuse allegations surfaced against several members of the governing body. The Hema Committee report, which was made public on August 19, detailed serious allegations of sexual harassment, exploitation, and misconduct by various individuals within the Malayalam film industry, including filmmakers, actors, and technicians.
The association issued a statement expressing their intention to allow for a leadership change, stating, “We are hopeful that AMMA will have new leadership capable of renewing and strengthening the association. Thanks to everyone for criticising and correcting.” The statement further noted that a general body meeting would be convened within the next two months to elect a new governing body.
The Hema Committee’s findings have shed light on the pervasive issues of sexual harassment and exploitation in the Malayalam film sector. The report has revealed a troubling culture of abuse, including casting couch practices, pay disparities, and lobbying, prompting numerous women to come forward with their allegations against prominent figures in the industry.
Among those affected by the report was actor Siddique, who served as the General Secretary of AMMA. Siddique resigned from his role following accusations of sexual misconduct made by a female actor. In his resignation statement, Siddique acknowledged the allegations and chose to step down from his position, saying, “Yes. I have tendered my official resignation to the president of the organisation, Mohanlal. Since there were allegations against me, I have decided not to continue in the post and resigned.”
The Hema Committee report has also ignited scrutiny of the industry’s top figures, including Mohanlal, Mammootty, and Fahadh Faasil, among others. Critics have questioned the silence of these prominent actors in the face of such serious allegations and the apparent lack of action taken prior to the report’s release.
The resignations mark a pivotal moment for AMMA and the broader Malayalam film industry. As the association prepares for new leadership, the focus will likely shift towards implementing reforms and addressing the systemic issues highlighted by the Hema Committee. The industry and its stakeholders face a critical period of reflection and change as they navigate the aftermath of these revelations and work towards creating a more accountable and respectful environment.
This period of transition presents both challenges and opportunities for the Malayalam film industry, as it seeks to rebuild trust and foster a safer, more equitable space for all its members.
