Kerala Governor Addresses Sexual Abuse Allegations in Malayalam Film Industry

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan confirmed that no complaints have been received amid the sexual abuse allegations in the Malayalam film industry. A redacted report by the Justice Hema Committee has prompted calls for investigation. The state government has promised action, with a special investigation team appointed.

Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan stated that the Raj Bhavan has not received any complaints yet regarding the sexual abuse allegations in the Malayalam film industry. This comes after several actors accused co-stars of sexual exploitation and abuse. The state government recently released a redacted version of the Justice Hema Committee report on harassment faced by women in the industry.

During a press meeting in Thiruvananthapuram on Monday, Governor Khan emphasized that the state has assured prompt action. He quoted the Chief Minister's assurance that any specific complaints would be handled legally. "The CM has announced that if people come forward with specific complaints, the law will take its course. Raj Bhavan has not received any complaint so far," he reiterated.

The opposition has accused the state government of attempting a cover-up and has demanded an investigation based on the report. Leader of Opposition in the Kerala Assembly, VD Satheesan, criticized the government for holding back the report for nearly five years, despite multiple complaints from actresses documented in it. He accused the government of tampering with the report to shield perpetrators.

Governor Khan assured that a special investigation team, led by senior police officer IGP G Sparjan Kumar, has been constituted to probe the allegations. The team, which includes four women IPS officers and two senior police officials, will operate under the supervision of Crime Branch ADGP H Venkatesh. The 235-page report, after redacting the names of the witnesses and the accused, highlights the domination of the Malayalam film industry by a small group of male producers, directors, and actors.

(With inputs from agencies.)