‘No Basic Amenities, Sexual Abuse’: Shocking Report EXPOSES ‘Discrimination & Exploitation’ Faced By Junior Artistes In Malayalam Cinema
The Malayalam Cinema has been rocked by a scathing new report from the Justice Hema Committee. The investigation, chaired by former Kerala High Court judge K Hema and supported by veteran actor T Sarada and retired IAS officer KB Valsalakumari, reveals severe discrimination and exploitation faced by women in the industry. The committee was formed in July 2017, following a high-profile sexual assault case involving a prominent actor.
The report uncovers a dark side of the industry, highlighting issues ranging from the casting couch to inadequate facilities on set. It exposes the harsh treatment of junior artistes, who are not recognised as official members of organisations like the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) or the Film Employees Federation of Kerala (FEFKA). These workers are often left without basic necessities and are subjected to inhumane conditions.
Junior Artistes Face Extreme Situations On The Sets
According to the findings, junior artistes frequently face extreme hardships on set. They are sometimes required to work for up to 19 hours a day without access to toilets or proper resting areas. The report reveals that they are often forced to stand in the sun for long periods without shade, food, or water, while higher-profile actors are given these basic comforts. One junior artiste shared that they were even fired for sitting down after standing in the hot sun for too long.
The report also sheds light on widespread exploitation. It states that many women join the industry as junior artistes due to dire financial situations and are exploited by those in power. They are rarely paid on time and often have to chase their wages. Additionally, middlemen and coordinators are reported to take a significant portion of their earnings.
Sexual Abuse Of Women, No Support For Juniors Amid Late-Night Shoots
A particularly troubling revelation is the prevalence of sexual exploitation. The report highlights that some coordinators and managers create WhatsApp groups to exploit women for sex under the guise of offering them opportunities in cinema. This exploitation can extend to illegal activities, with some women being coerced into the flesh trade.
The conditions for junior artistes are further exacerbated by the lack of consideration for their welfare. The report details instances where junior artistes have been abandoned after late-night shoots, left without transport or accommodation. Some have had to sleep in railway stations for safety. Furthermore, if they sustain injuries on set, there is often little to no support from the production teams. One case involved a 70-year-old woman who suffered severe burn injuries but received no financial assistance for her treatment.
This comprehensive report reveals a grim reality for women and junior artistes in the Malayalam film industry, sparking a much-needed conversation about reform and the urgent need for better protections and respect for all workers.
(Also read: Dulquer Salmaan To Make His Comeback In Malayalam Cinema With RDX Director Nahas Hidhayath’s Next?)
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