After Malayalam Industry Revelations, Tamil Actress Sanam Shetty Speaks Out on Harassment in Kollywood
The South Indian film industry is facing intense scrutiny following the release of the Justice Hema Committee report, which exposed widespread sexual exploitation in the Malayalam film industry. Now, Tamil actress Sanam Shetty has made serious allegations, claiming that similar abuses occur in the Tamil film industry, commonly known as Kollywood.
Justice Hema Committee Report Stirs Controversy
The Justice Hema Committee report, released by the Kerala government, has sent shockwaves through the Malayalam film industry. It reveals that sexual exploitation of women is rampant, and the conditions for junior artists and crew members are deplorable. The report highlights that actresses face severe harassment, painting a grim picture of the industry. Stars like Mohanlal, Mammootty, Dulquer Salman, and Fahadh Fasil have emerged from this industry, but the allegations have cast a dark shadow over its reputation.
Sanam Shetty Speaks Out on Kollywood
In response to the Justice Hema Committee report, Tamil actress Sanam Shetty has come forward with her own experiences of harassment in the Tamil film industry. Sanam, known for her roles in Tamil cinema and as a contestant on ‘Bigg Boss Tamil,’ claimed that both men and women face sexual exploitation in Kollywood. Speaking outside the Chennai Police Commissioner’s office on Tuesday, Sanam expressed her concerns about the treatment of women in the industry.
Sanam Shetty’s Call to Action
Sanam Shetty, who was at the Police Commissioner’s office seeking permission for a rally against the Kolkata rape and murder case, commented on the Malayalam industry report. She said, “I don’t know the full details of the Hema Committee report, but I welcome this step. I thank the judge and the Kerala government for addressing the exploitation of women in the Malayalam film industry.”
She went on to say, “Such incidents are happening in Tamil cinema as well. No one can deny it. I’m speaking from my experience. Addiction or compromise is not the only way to get work. If you believe in yourself, you will get work without compromising. So, wait and don’t be desperate.”
Industry-Wide Problem
Sanam Shetty emphasized that not everyone in the industry is “bad,” but acknowledged that sexual harassment is a pervasive issue affecting both men and women. She urged victims to come forward and expose the culprits, stating, “It takes a lot of courage. But please come forward and expose such people.”
Background: Justice Hema Committee Report
The Justice Hema Committee was formed in 2017 following a high-profile case where a leading Malayalam actress was kidnapped and sexually assaulted while traveling from Thrissur to Kochi. Among the 13 accused in the case is popular actor Dileep. The report sheds light on the alarming exploitation of women in the film industry, including lack of basic facilities on sets, economic discrimination, sexual harassment, and the prevalence of the casting couch.
The revelations from the Justice Hema Committee report and the allegations from Sanam Shetty highlight the urgent need for reform and accountability in the South Indian film industry. As more voices speak out, the pressure is mounting for meaningful change to protect those who work in the industry from exploitation and harassment.
