'Everyone Cannot Be Blamed,' Says Mohanlal Amid Hema Committee Report Revelations

Actor Mohanlal has commended the government for making public the Justice Hema Committee report, which exposes allegations of sexual harassment within the Malayalam film industry. The report comes amid a surge of serious allegations, including sexual assault and rape, involving notable figures like veteran actor Siddique and filmmaker Ranjith Balakrishnan.

Mohanlal On Justice Hema Committee Report

This comes after his resignation from his position as president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) on August 27. Mohanlal in his first media statement stated, "We welcome the Hema Committee report. It was the right decision by the government to release that report.”  

He added that while the AMMA cannot address all issues, it is crucial for the questions raised to be answered by everyone involved. The actor emphasised that while the industry is vast and hard-working, everyone can not be blamed for the misconduct. "Those responsible will be punished; an investigation is going on."

Mohanlal also clarified that he is not part of any influential group within the industry and is unaware of the existence of such groups. He said, "Wrongdoers should be punished if there is evidence against them."

Mohanlal Steps Down as AMMA President Amid Sexual Assault Allegations

The decision to dissolve the executive committee came in the wake of serious allegations against some of its prominent members, including actors Siddique and Baburaj, who held significant positions within the organisation.

Siddique, who served as the general secretary, stepped down on Sunday, August 25, after a female actor accused him of sexual assault. Baburaj, the joint secretary, continues to deny allegations made by a junior actor but has remained under scrutiny.

AMMA announced that a new committee would be formed after fresh elections scheduled to take place within the next two months. This decision reflects the organisation's attempt to address growing criticism and restore its reputation amidst the controversy.

Mass Resignations In AMMA

The resignation of Mohanlal and the dissolution of the committee triggered a wave of resignations from other key members of AMMA. Among those who resigned are:

Vice Presidents: Jayan Cherthala and Jagadish
Joint Secretary: Baburaj
Treasurer: Unni Mukundan
Executive Committee Members: Ansiba Hassan, Sarayu Mohan, Vinu Mohan, Tini Tom, Ananya, Suresh Krishna, Kalabhavan Shajohn, Suraj Venjaramoodu, Jomol, Joy Mathew, and Tovino Thomas

These resignations came on the heels of actor Prithviraj Sukumaran's public criticism of AMMA’s handling of complaints from survivors of sexual harassment within the industry on Monday, August 26. His remarks were specifically directed at AMMA's lack of action regarding a complaint by his co-star Sridevika against director Thulasidas, calling for stronger interventions from the organisation.