Hema Committee Report: 'Kireedam' actress reveals using sandal to hit a director

Actress Usha, known for her role in the film 'Kireedam', has expressed strong opinions following the release of the Hema Committee report. Usha, famous for her many character roles, said that the report reflects the experiences of women who have endured mistreatment within the film industry. Many incidents related to the actress assault case were already known, and the report confirms these occurrences. She added that those who have faced such ordeals had shared their experiences earlier.

Usha, however, held that the entire film industry should not be judged by the actions of a few individuals. She pointed out that only a select few are responsible for such behaviour and stressed the need for government intervention. 

Many of the accused named in the Hema Committee report hold prominent positions in various organisations, and without action, they are likely to continue their misconduct. Usha said these individuals should face consequences and be removed from their positions.

The actress further urged women who have experienced similar situations to come forward and file complaints. She warned that if no complaints are lodged, the same behaviour will persist. 

Usha also referred to comments made by senior actress Sharada, who had noted that the exploitation of women in the film industry has been ongoing since the early days of her career and continues even today. 

She expressed her belief that a “power group” operates within the film industry and shared that she has always responded when she encountered inappropriate behaviour.

Recalling her early days in cinema, Usha narrated a personal experience: "When I first entered the industry, I was offered a role in a film by a certain director. Many warned me that he was a troublemaker, but I was confident because my father was by my side. This director had his ways—he would give us a lot of freedom initially, but later, he would start calling us to his room. When he called me, I went along with my father. However, when I returned to the set, I was treated badly, and even though I performed well, he insulted me."

She continued, "Once, I even went to hit him with my sandal. This incident was reported in some magazines. I've been sidelined on several occasions because I chose to react. Today, I feel there is a ‘power group’ within the industry. Back then, I didn’t know whom to complain to."