The Kerala Police have initiated their first case regarding the escalating sexual misconduct allegations within the Malayalam film industry. The move comes as several prominent figures, including actors and members of the Association of Malayalam Movies Artistes (AMMA), are accused of sexual misconduct.

High-Profile Resignations and Accusations

On Sunday, notable figures such as director Ranjith, who also serves as the chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, and Siddique, the general secretary of AMMA, resigned from their positions following the allegations. The police have registered a non-bailable case against Ranjith, based on a complaint by a woman actor alleging sexual misconduct. Ranjith has countered that the allegations are part of a "concerted move" against him since taking up his role at the Academy.

In response to the release of the Justice Hema Committee report, which highlighted widespread sexual abuse in the industry, Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra has accused Ranjith of misconduct dating back to 2009. She filed a complaint under IPC Section 354, dealing with criminal force or assault against a woman.

New Allegations Surface

Actor Minu Muneer has publicly accused several senior actors of sexual misconduct. She named Mukesh, a former CPI(M) MLA; Edavela Babu, a key AMMA leader; and actors Maniyanpilla Raju and Jayasurya. While Mukesh, Jayasurya, and Babu have not responded to the allegations, Raju has welcomed an investigation into the claims.

Muneer detailed multiple instances of alleged misconduct, including unwanted advances and physical assaults during film shoots. She also revealed her struggles with AMMA’s membership application process, which she claimed was marred by further harassment.

Further Allegations Against AMMA Members

Additionally, actor-producer Baburaj, who serves as AMMA’s joint general secretary, faces accusations of sexual assault from a young woman actor. Baburaj has denied the allegations, suggesting they are part of a broader conspiracy to hinder his role within AMMA. The accuser, who has since left the industry, has expressed her readiness to present her case publicly.

Sector-Wide Impact and Investigations

The case has prompted a significant reaction within the Malayalam film industry, with several parties urging thorough investigations. The Kerala government has formed a Special Investigation Team to handle the cases arising from the Hema Committee report’s revelations.

The allegations and subsequent investigations are expected to have far-reaching implications for the industry, affecting both public perception and institutional governance.