The charges against Jayasurya stem from complaints made by two women following the release of the Justice Hema Committee Report.
Published Sep 20, 2024 | 1:31 PM ⚊ Updated Sep 20, 2024 | 1:31 PM
Sexual harassment: Malayalam actor Jayasurya returns to Kerala, says truth will prevail. (X)
Malayalam actor Jayasurya, who is currently facing sexual harassment charges, has returned to Kerala from the United States.
Upon his arrival at the Cochin International Airport, the actor announced that he was prepared to face the allegations legally and also promised to address the media soon, alongside his lawyer.
“I can’t explain a lot since the case is subjuice. The lawyer will soon give a date and we will meet on that day,” he said, avoiding further details.
Jayasurya maintained that the sexual harassment accusations made against him were fabricated. “You will understand everything in due course of time.”
Earlier this month, the actor addressed the issue in an open letter, which he shared on his social media accounts. In the post, Jayasurya expressed his gratitude to those who wished him on his birthday and supported him during this difficult period.
He also clarified that he had been in the US for the past month due to personal commitments.
“During this time, two false allegations on the grounds of sexual harassment were made against me. They have shattered me, my family, and everyone close to me,” Jayasurya wrote.
He added, “I hope one realises that facing a false accusation of harassment is just as painful as the harassment itself. A lie always travels faster than the truth, but I believe the truth will finally prevail.”
The charges against Jayasurya stem from complaints made by two women following the release of the Justice Hema Committee Report, which highlighted issues of sexual misconduct in the Malayalam film industry.
The first complaint was filed by a female actor from Kochi, who accused Jayasurya of misbehaving with her near a restroom during a film shoot at the Kerala secretariat.
Registered by the Cantonment police, this case is being pursued under IPC sections 354 (outraging the modesty of a woman), 354A (sexual harassment), and 509 (insulting the modesty of a woman).
A second complaint was lodged by a female actor from Thiruvananthapuram, who alleged that Jayasurya sexually assaulted her on a film set in Thodupuzha, Idukki district. This case has been transferred to the Thodupuzha police for further investigation.
The Kerala government appointed a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to probe the allegations of sexual abuse and exploitation of women in Malayalam cinema. The SIT is set to take further legal action based on the findings of the Hema Committee report.
Sources reveal that there are over 20 cases involving serious allegations. The complainants in these cases will be contacted, and legal proceedings will be initiated with their consent. Further, the SIT decided that if the individuals provide new statements, the team will move forward with the necessary legal steps.
(Edited by Y Krishna Jyothi)
