Solidarity Will Drive Change, Says Paoli Dam As Bengali Artistes Appeal For Safer Working Conditions

Over 100 female artists from the Bengali film industry, including renowned figures such as Aparna Sen, Swastika Mukherjee, and Paoli Dam, have jointly penned a letter to the West Bengal State-run Tele Academy, demanding a safer work environment in the wake of the recent rape-murder of a doctor at RG Kar Medical College & Hospital in Kolkata. 

The letter, which was also addressed to the Eastern India Motion Picture Association and the West Bengal Motion Picture Artists Forum and issued by the Women's Forum for Screen Workers, reflects the deep concern over the lack of safety and the ongoing issue of sexual harassment within the industry. It also highlights the absence of functional support systems to prevent and address sexual harassment, as well as a notable silence on the recurring incidents of abuse within their workplaces. 

Actor Paoli Dam, one of the signatories of the letter from over 100 female artists in the Bengali film industry, spoke to SheThePeople about the importance of collective action against harassment and violence. She emphasised the need for solidarity, stating, "It’s crucial for everyone to unite against harassment and violence, not just those directly affected. Even if one hasn’t personally experienced these issues, standing in solidarity can drive significant societal change."

Let’s Prevent History from Repeating: Paoli Dam’s Appeal for Safer Workplaces

Dam further shared her own experience, acknowledging that while she has been fortunate not to face harassment in her workplace, this doesn’t diminish the reality that others have. "I’ve been blessed with respectful directors and co-stars who have always respected my boundaries. However, just because I haven’t faced these issues doesn’t mean others haven’t," she said, underscoring the importance of supporting those who have suffered and advocating for safer work environments for all.

Furthermore, addressing the troubling issue of sexual favours being demanded in exchange for work within the Bengali entertainment industry, Paoli Dam emphasised the need for a strict whistleblowing mechanism, stating, "While the situation often feels hopeless, staying hopeful and continuously advocating for safer, more equitable environments is essential. We must keep these conversations alive to prevent history from repeating itself. By addressing these issues head-on and implementing real change, we can work towards a safer, more equitable world for all."

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The actor concluded by noting that the responsibility of ensuring dignity and safety in the workplace lies with employers, and that the film, television, and web platform industries should be no exception.