Actor Mohanlal opened up about the ongoing discussion surrounding the Hema Committee Report, which has spotlighted allegations of sexual exploitation and harassment within the Malayalam film industry.

At a private event in Thiruvananthapuram, Mohanlal clarified that he was not involved with any "power group" mentioned in the report, which claims such a group influences casting decisions and other industry matters. 

"...Problems faced by junior artists are also being looked into...We will cooperate in the investigation process. We are here only to set things right. I am not aware of any such power group. I am not a part of it. I have not read the Hema Committee report," he said.

"Some ask whether I had run away. I have not run away anywhere. I was busy with my wife's treatment. I have been travelling with you for the past 47 years. Cinema is just a part of society. What happens elsewhere happens in cinema too, though I do not condone it. Such issues occur in every field," he said.

He further explained that AMMA, the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists, operates more like a family than a trade union, comprising about five hundred members focused on mutual welfare. He added that although he served as AMMA's president twice, he was initially reluctant to take on the role but chose to accept the responsibilities when given the opportunity.

"We request you not to put all the focus on AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Artists). Investigation is going on... Please don't destroy the industry... We welcome the Hema Committee report. It was the right decision by the government to release that report. AMMA cannot answer all the questions. These questions should be asked from everyone. This is a very hardworking industry. Many people are involved in it. But everyone cannot be blamed for this. Those responsible will be punished, investigation is going on...," he added.

Mohanlal also confirmed that he provided testimony twice before the Hema Committee, established by the Kerala Government to investigate these allegations. This marks his first public comment on the matter.

The report, with a redacted version released earlier this month, includes explosive accounts of harassment, exploitation, and ill-treatment of female professionals in the industry. It also alleges that a "criminal gang" controls the industry, pushing out women who do not comply.