The Kerala High Court's special bench stated that individuals who did not testify before the Justice K. Hema Committee could still file complaints about exploitation in the film industry with the Special Investigation Team (SIT). This observation was made while considering a batch of petitions seeking action based on the Hema Committee report.
The three-member committee, established in 2017 to examine issues of sexual harassment and gender inequality in the Malayalam film industry, released its report on August 19. The report exposed numerous instances of abuse, sexual harassment, exploitation, discrimination, and exclusion within the industry. Following the report's release, allegations of sexual misconduct against prominent figures in the Malayalam film industry have sparked significant public attention.
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While considering the petitions, the high court noted that those with grievances could approach the nodal officer, who has been specifically appointed to handle such complaints. On December 7, the Kerala government appointed G. Poonkuzhali IPS as the nodal officer and primary contact for survivors in cases arising from the Hema Committee report.
Additionally, the court expanded the jurisdiction of the nodal officer to assist individuals who testified before the Hema Committee, particularly if they face threats. Complaints can now be forwarded to the nodal officer for appropriate action.
The court also stated that if complainants are expelled from film-related organisations as a result of filing complaints, they may seek recourse from the court.
In cases where witnesses face threats, the nodal officer has been directed to inform the Special Investigation Team (SIT) for further action.
According to the government’s submission in court, 50 cases have been registered based on the Hema Committee report. Investigations in four cases have been completed, and final reports have been submitted.
