Minu Muneer Exposes Allegations of Sexual Abuse by Malayalam Film Industry Colleagues
News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/26th August 2024
Actress Minu Muneer has made startling revelations of sexual abuse within the Malayalam film industry, sparking a renewed wave of #MeToo accusations. Her allegations come in the wake of the Hema Committee’s findings, which have intensified scrutiny on inappropriate sexual behavior in the industry. Minu Muneer disclosed on Monday that she experienced both physical and verbal abuse at the hands of several male actors, including a former CPI(M) politician who served in Kerala’s Assembly.
Minu Muneer’s revelations have come amid a series of high-profile resignations, including Ranjith, the head of Kerala’s State Chalachitra Academy, and Siddique, the secretary of the actors’ association. The actress has announced her intention to file a formal complaint with the state police team assigned to investigate these allegations, which surfaced following the Hema Committee’s report.
In her detailed account, Minu Muneer recounted disturbing incidents involving multiple actors. She alleged that one actor attempted to assault her during hotel stays while filming “Calendar” in 2009 and “Nadakame Ulakam” in 2011. According to Minu, the actor forcibly pulled her onto a bed, insisting she consider certain individuals for better opportunities. She recounted fleeing the scene and revealed another troubling encounter where an actor had expressed his intentions to visit her room and had persistently knocked on her door.
Furthermore, Minu shared a harrowing experience during a shoot in the state capital. She described an incident where an actor grabbed her from behind and kissed her. After she pushed him away and escaped, the actor reportedly invited her to his apartment, but she declined the offer, which seemingly ended the matter without further incident.
In 2013, Minu sought membership in the Association of Malayalam Movies Artistes (AMMA). During this process, she encountered inappropriate behavior from an actor with a significant role within the organization. Minu claimed that while she was filling out her membership application at the actor’s flat, he kissed her neck from behind. She quickly fled from the apartment and did not receive the membership she sought.
Minu Muneer’s disclosures have profoundly impacted her career, leading her to leave the Malayalam film industry and relocate to Chennai. She has expressed a strong desire for justice and accountability for the suffering and trauma she has endured. The accused actors have not publicly responded to the allegations yet, although one actor had previously indicated openness to an investigation, suggesting a recognition of the inevitability of such revelations.
These allegations underscore the ongoing challenges within the Malayalam film industry regarding harassment and misconduct, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and reform to ensure a safer environment for all artists.
