Allegations in Malayalam Cinema: Calls for MLAs' Resignation Amidst SIT Probe

Senior CPI(M) leader K K Shailaja emphasizes the necessity for MLA M Mukesh to resign if found guilty amidst a special investigation team's probe into sexual harassment claims in Malayalam cinema following the Justice Hema Committee report. The government's stance remains unbiased, supporting a thorough investigation.

Senior CPI(M) leader and former minister K K Shailaja emphasized on Thursday that if party MLA M Mukesh is proven to have committed the crimes he is accused of, then he should no longer continue as a legislator.

Shailaja noted that a special investigation team (SIT) is currently probing multiple allegations, including those against Mukesh, in light of the Justice Hema Committee report.

She assured that once the SIT delivers its findings, the government will take the necessary action based on the report. Shailaja stated, ''If he has committed a crime, then he is not eligible to continue in that position. But, right now we are in the initial stages of the investigation and we cannot say whether he should resign or not.''

Reiterating the government's commitment to impartiality, Shailaja said it will not shield anyone found to be an offender. She also pointed out that there were Congress MLAs facing similar allegations who have not resigned, echoing LDF convener E P Jayarajan's position. However, she clarified she does not necessarily imply the same stance should apply in this case.

Moreover, Shailaja highlighted the government's commitment to supporting women and victims, noting that the Justice Hema Committee was formed in 2017, and now an SIT, involving senior female IPS officers, is probing allegations against various industry figures.

On Wednesday, an FIR under IPC 376 (rape) was filed against the actor at Maradu police station in Kochi. Allegations of sexual harassment are also facing other prominent Malayalam film personalities. Thiruvananthapuram Museum police booked actor Sidhique for an alleged incident from eight years ago, while director Ranjith has faced charges dating back to 2009, leading to his resignation from the Kerala Chalachitra Academy.

In light of the 2017 actress assault case and findings from the Justice Hema Committee report revealing industry-wide harassment, the state government formed a seven-member special investigation team on August 25 to handle the rising complaints against actors and directors.

(With inputs from agencies.)