“The victim who is able to articulate the situation of the victim has ceased to be a victim: he or she has become a threat.” 

Quoting American writer and civil rights activist James Arthur Baldwin, the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) has issued a strong statement on its Facebook page. It reiterated its stance on the Hema Committee Report, underscoring the report's impact and subsequent reactions.

Praising the report, which emerged after four and a half years, for highlighting critical issues within the film industry, including complaints about work structures and sexual allegations, the WCC stated, "The Hema Committee Report, which came out after four and a half years of effort, has raised numerous complaints and issues regarding the existing labour structure in the film industry. Among these, it also mentions sexual allegations." 

Underlining their mission, the WCC declared, “Our aim is to create opportunities for work, to establish dignity for women, and to foster a more favourable environment for women at the workplace.
We extend our salutations to all the women who, without any backing, have courageously stood in the public sphere, openly addressing the issues in their workplaces."

The WCC also acknowledged the difficulties faced by women who have bravely shared their workplace issues without any support, saluting those who have remained steadfast in the face of adversity. The report has sparked significant discussion both within Kerala and beyond. However, the WCC has noted a troubling surge in cyber attacks against them, including the creation of fake IDs and personal attacks aimed at discrediting their efforts.

"The report is creating a significant ripple effect both in Kerala and beyond. However, a message to those who expressed their happiness and support when the report was released- Now comes the time of cyber attacks against us," it stated.  

In its statement, the WCC addressed these attacks, saying, "Fake accounts on social media are being created en masse. Character assassination is a tactic that the patriarchal society has always used to mentally break down women who speak out. We will continue to move forward, confronting this legally."

"To all those who rely on such unethical practices, attempting to tear us down. We thank you! For making us stronger! For continuing to make us stronger!" it concluded. 

The WCC’s response highlights their commitment to tackling the challenges and injustices faced by women in the Malayalam film industry and their resolve to continue their advocacy despite the ongoing attacks.