Tanushree Dutta Calls Out Power Shielding Criminals Amid Justice Hema Committee Report

Actor Tanushree Dutta criticized those in power for shielding criminals, stating that no movement or report can engender change as long as this persists. Her comments came after the Justice Hema Committee report exposed sexual harassment in the Malayalam film industry. Dutta accused Nana Patekar of harassment, triggering India's #MeToo movement.

Actor Tanushree Dutta has voiced her frustration over the shielding of criminals by those in power, declaring that no movement or report can foster change under such conditions. Dutta's remarks followed the release of the Justice Hema Committee report, which revealed disturbing instances of harassment and sexual exploitation in the Malayalam film industry.

Dutta, who accused actor Nana Patekar of sexual harassment in 2018—an allegation he denies—expressed solidarity with the women who contributed to the committee's expansive report. The panel was established in the wake of the 2017 actress assault case involving actor Dileep to investigate sexual harassment and gender inequality within Malayalam cinema.

Dutta believes that the persistent issue lies in individuals in powerful positions continuing to protect the accused, undermining both legal and social systems designed to redress such grievances. She herself has faced significant challenges in her case against Patekar, including witness intimidation and lack of police cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies.)