Women are finding their courage, our women are driving change, says Jeo Baby on Hema Report

Kozhikode: Director Jeo Baby has praised the Hema Committee report as a major turning point for the Malayalam film industry, stating that recent allegations are not damaging but rather improves the industry.

Speaking to the media at the inauguration of the ‘Snehadaram’ program organised by the Kozhikode theatre workers association, Jeo Baby pointed out the importance of the Hema Committee report. He stressed that the disclosures should be taken seriously and not dismissed.

“Women have found courage now, and I view this positively. It is our women who are driving change. History will remember the WCC. I support the accusers, while also believing that the accused deserve due process,” he said.

Meanwhile, with megastar Mammootty breaking his long silence on the Hema Committee Report, both iconic figures of Mollywood have finally addressed the contentious issue that has not only rocked the Malayalam film industry but also attracted international media attention. The delay in their responses had drawn criticism from various quarters. Writer Shobhaa De condemned Mohanlal for his silence on the Hema panel report and described his resignation from the AMMA presidency without a clear stance as “cowardice.” Similarly, Mammootty faced backlash from netizens for his silence over the matter.

In other news, the National Commission for Women (NCW) on Saturday sought the complete release of the Hema Committee Report, following the findings of the report hit the Malayalam film industry with sexual abuse allegations. The Commission stated that it is committed to furthering its efforts in addressing these matters with the appropriate authorities to ensure that the rights of women are upheld and that a safe, equitable working environment is fostered within the industry.