Kochi: The Kerala government has decided to establish a Tribunal to address issues in the Malayalam film industry, following the recommendation of the Hema Committee report. A notification regarding the Tribunal's formation will be issued ahead of the upcoming film conclave in Kochi during March.
The government has appointed Chief Secretary Sarada Muraleedharan to oversee the formation of the Tribunal. Although the final composition of the Tribunal is yet to be confirmed, it is expected to consist of two or three members. The Tribunal will serve as a platform to resolve issues, particularly those faced by women in the film industry.
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The draft report, prepared by the government-appointed film policy formulation committee, will be presented at the conclave after consultation with the Tribunal.
Hema Committee’s key recommendation
The Hema Committee's primary recommendation is to appoint a retired judge to lead the Tribunal, with a woman judge being considered most suitable. The Tribunal is expected to conduct inquiries only in the High Court Division Bench.
However, it remains unclear whether the proposed Tribunal will focus exclusively on women's issues in the film sector or if it will address other industry concerns as well.
Details of the Tribunal’s functions
Key recommendations from the Hema Committee report include:
- Nature of the Tribunal: The Tribunal will function like a civil court but will not have the power to try cases.
- Power to appoint a commission: The Tribunal should have the authority to appoint a commission to investigate disputes and complaints and submit reports.
- Mediation or counselling: In cases where complaints do not fall under the Posh Act (Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace), mediation or counselling should be sought.
- Limitations: The Tribunal will not have the authority to deal with sexual assault cases involving minors.
- Other grievance redressal forums: Individuals can approach other grievance redressal forums or courts regarding complaints filed with the Tribunal.
- Confidential proceedings: All proceedings will be held in camera, and the names of those involved in complaints should not be disclosed.
- Protection against discrimination: Individuals who act against those seeking the Tribunal’s intervention in cases of discrimination or industry bans may face fines.
Published: 22 Jan 2025, 09:43 am IST
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