The court noted cooperation with the SIT can’t be forced but ordered the nodal agency to stay active. Existing guidelines on sexual harassment in film will continue until new legislation is passed
Published Jun 25, 2025 | 6:24 PM ⚊ Updated Jun 25, 2025 | 6:35 PM
Hema committee report on Malayalam film industry. (South First)
Synopsis: The Kerala government informed the High Court that it has closed all 34 cases linked to the Justice Hema Committee report on sexual harassment in the Malayalam film industry, citing complainants’ non-cooperation. Despite forming a Special Investigation Team and extending support, most witnesses declined further involvement. The SIT will submit its final report within ten days, officials told the court
The Kerala government has informed the High Court that it has closed all 34 cases registered in connection with the Justice Hema Committee report, which investigated sexual harassment in the Malayalam film industry.
The decision, officials said, was taken due to the lack of cooperation from complainants.
Despite setting up a Special Investigation Team (SIT) and offering various forms of support, the majority of individuals who had testified before the Hema Committee reportedly declined to engage further with the legal process.
As a result, the state decided to drop the cases, including the 21 that had already been closed earlier.
The SIT, in its submission to a special High Court bench, stated it would submit its final report within ten days.
The court, while acknowledging that no one can be compelled to cooperate with the SIT, directed that the nodal agency created for handling such cases remain active to address any future complaints.
The existing court-mandated guidelines to address sexual harassment in the film sector will remain in force until a new legal framework is enacted.
As part of efforts to formulate a comprehensive policy for the Malayalam film industry, the state government also announced plans to convene a special film conclave in August.
This industry-wide consultation will involve key stakeholders, including film organisations and workers’ unions, to frame actionable recommendations.
The government aims to finalise a draft policy by October and introduce a supporting legislative framework soon after, marking a fresh attempt to institutionalise safety and accountability mechanisms within the state’s influential film sector.
(Edited by Ananya Rao with inputs from Sreelakshmi Soman)
