Union Minister Suresh Gopi Blasts Media Over Sexual Harassment Allegations

Union Minister Suresh Gopi criticized the media for allegedly misleading public perception of the film industry concerning sexual harassment allegations against actors and directors. He emphasized that courts should handle these issues and warned that media sensationalism could harm the cinema industry.

Union Minister Suresh Gopi on Tuesday sharply criticized the media, accusing it of distorting public perception about the film industry in light of recent sexual harassment allegations against actors and directors.

Describing the allegations as 'food' for the media, Gopi suggested the press was exploiting these stories for profit while potentially damaging the film industry. The Union Minister of State for Petroleum, Natural Gas and Tourism cautioned the media to let legal proceedings take their course.

In response to reporters' questions about allegations involving CPI(M) MLA M Mukesh and other industry figures, Gopi asserted, 'The court will decide. You are not the court.' His remarks followed the Yuva Morcha's protest march to Mukesh's residence in Kollam and amidst increasing complaints post the Justice Hema Committee report on harassment in Malayalam cinema.

The report, published by a committee formed after the 2017 actress assault case, has sparked numerous new allegations and calls for action, leading the government to form a special investigation team to delve into these claims.

(With inputs from agencies.)