After the Hema Committee report exposed severe issues of harassment and exploitation in the Malayalam film industry, the spotlight has shifted to the Telugu film industry. Despite the similar investigation prompted by Sri Reddy's 2018 allegations (read more about it below), the Telugu report being submitted in June 2022, has not been made public yet.
There is growing outrage over the report’s secrecy and critics, activists and actors alike are demanding that the Telangana government unveil the findings. Former Minister Talasani Srinivas Yadav has ignited further controversy by dismissing the report as "very vague," implying it offers nothing to work on.
As the tension continues to build as the public and industry insiders alike grapple with what the report might reveal, or why it’s being kept from view SheThePeople delves into these pressing questions.
Why was the committee formed in 2018? Who was involved?
Sangeetha Devi Dundoo, a Hyderabad-based journalist with deep insights into the Telugu film industry, shared, "The Sri Reddy protest and the #MeToo movement, when it unfolded, prompted the formation of the Voice of Women support group and ICCs being set up at least in a few production houses. It was a start."
The journalist, currently working for The Hindu, also shared her insights about the committee formed in 2018 in the Telugu film industry. She stated, "The High Level Commission appointed by the former Telangana State Government included several civil rights and human rights activists, representatives of the labour commission, the department of cinematography, the women and child welfare department, and the police."
Devi then shared her personal perspective on Yadav’s comments, saying, "I am told that the subcommittee of the HLC has conducted detailed discussions and interviews with members of the different departments in the Telugu film industry. With so many experts involved, I doubt if the findings or suggestions would have been ‘vague’."
What’s Behind the Secrecy?
Latha Srinivasan, another distinguished journalist and film critic with 17 years of experience and a prominent voice in the Indian cinema landscape, noted that some women did talk about the casting couch, but the women interviewed never called out anyone.
Certified by the University of Pittsburgh in 'Gender and Sexuality: Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace,' she highlights the challenges faced by survivors, who often fear job loss if they speak out. She shared, "Women look at the film industry like any other profession and want to come make a living there. So I think it’s a case of who will bell the cat first. Many women working in the Indian film industry are talking about sexual harassment, but unless there is state government support and support from the rest of the industry, it’ll be tough to address this issue and find a way forward.”
Taking the Malayalam film industry as a clear example, Srinivasan, based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, whose work spans Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam film industries paints a sombre picture of the current situation. She points out that, "Right now, there is an ongoing blame game, and women who have registered complaints have been left to fend for themselves once again."
Srinivasan explains that the Kerala government has decided not to take immediate action, though survivors can file complaints with the Special Investigation Team. "Now, how long will these investigations take? In India, we know that cases and investigations can drag on for years with no resolution in sight," she notes. This delay often results in significant setbacks for women, including potential loss of work and career jeopardy.
Sangeetha adds to this saying, "It is a long, painful road to justice. We all know how tough it has been for a few #MeToo complainants across the country. They have been sidelined, denied work opportunities, and trolled on social media. It can take a financial toll on their mental health. Unless investigations are fast-tracked and the complainants are assured that even the powerful will not be shielded, little will change."
Plea For Action
On one hand, Srinivasan criticised the handling of the report, saying, "Unfortunately, it seems like brushing the report under the carpet is the simplest option.” On the other hand, Sangeetha wrapped up with a plea for progress, "I urge that the report on the Telugu film industry be made public soon, so we can establish clear guidelines to improve workplace conditions. Additionally, it is crucial that those who come forward with complaints receive the support they need."
/shethepeople/media/agency_attachments/iUYfaBbcMozaYLoGnoov.png)
/shethepeople/media/member_avatars/4FGyuvwBciC6LndcgpY2.jpeg )
Follow Us/shethepeople/media/media_files/LdVmtnFzyd38dNbDNGVD.png)