Actors Mukesh and Jayasurya Face FIRs Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations

Actor and CPI (M) MLA Mukesh M and actor Jayasurya face FIRs following serious allegations of verbal and physical abuse by actress Minu Muneer. The Kerala government has initiated a special investigation team to examine the claims, which implicate multiple figures in the Malayalam film industry.

An FIR has been registered against actor and CPI (M) MLA from Kollam, Mukesh M, following the complaint of actress Minu Muneer. "FIR has been registered against actor Mukesh, CPI (M) MLA from Kollam constituency," Kerala Police informed ANI on Thursday. The complaint prompted the FIR.

The police also confirmed that another FIR has been filed against Actor Jayasurya based on the same actress' complaint, under section 354, which pertains to outraging a woman's modesty. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has recorded the actress' statement. Muneer accuses actors Mukesh M, Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Idavela Babu of verbal and physical abuse during their collaborations on film projects.

Speaking to ANI, Muneer elaborated on her experiences, alleging misconduct. "Once, as I was leaving the toilet, Jayasurya hugged me from behind and kissed me forcefully... Then, Idavela Babu expressed interest in a sexual relationship," she claimed. She also mentioned troubling interactions with Maniyanpilla Raju, including inappropriate suggestions about her hotel accommodation.

The accusations emerged soon after director Ranjith and actor Siddique resigned from the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) amid separate allegations. Muneer had initially shared her allegations on Facebook, recounting incidents dating back to 2013.

Muneer wrote, "I am reporting incidents of physical and verbal abuse by Mukesh, Maniyanpilla Raju, Idavela Babu, Jayasurya, Advocate Chandrasekharan, production controller Noble and Vichu." She cited the abuse as her reason for leaving the Malayalam film industry and moving to Chennai.

In response, Mukesh issued a press release asserting his innocence. "I welcome the investigations into the allegations. A fair and transparent inquiry is essential to uncover the truth," he stated. He emphasized his responsibility as both an actor and public representative.

Mukesh further alleged that Muneer previously sought financial assistance and attempted blackmail. "This group, persistently blackmailing me for money, now targets me opportunistically," Mukesh claimed. He called for a thorough investigation to clear his name.

The controversy is amplified by the recent release of a redacted version of the Justice Hema Committee report, outlining harassment and exploitation within the Malayalam film industry. The report highlights the dominance of a small group of male figures.

Responding to the revelations, the Kerala government has formed a special investigation team to address the allegations. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the team's formation in light of growing public and media scrutiny. "Recent interviews and statements from women in the industry detailing hardships have prompted a meeting with senior police officials to ensure a thorough investigation," read an official release from the Chief Minister's Office. (ANI)

(With inputs from agencies.)