Hema Committee Report: Artists reluctant to speak out about sexual harassment

The Hema Committee report has brought to light the pervasive issue of sexual harassment within the Malayalam film industry. According to the report, which draws from statements by both men and women in cinema, sexual harassment is "shockingly rampant in the film industry, and it remains unchecked and uncontrolled."

"From the evidence placed before the Committee, which includes statements of both men and women in cinema and various documents produced and procured, we unhesitatingly conclude that sexual harassment, etc., is shockingly rampant in the film industry and remains unchecked and uncontrolled," it says in the report. 

It also revealed that many are reluctant to speak out, even to other women or close relatives. The fear of retaliation and damage to their careers often silences victims, allowing the harassment to persist unchecked.

"...It has come out in evidence that certain men in cinema, who are well known and well reputed for their ability as an artist, director or whoever he be in the film industry have shocked certain women in the cinema by sexual harassment, and physical advances made by them towards them. Thus, the major issue which women face in the industry is sexual harassment. It is the worst evil which women in cinema face in the film industry. The Women in cinema are most reluctant to speak out about the sexual harassment, which they are subjected to, even to other women or close relatives," it says in report.