Thiruvananthapuram, August 25: The Kerala government has decided to form a special investigation team, led by a senior police officer, to investigate allegations of sexual abuse in the Malayalam film industry. "In light of recent interviews and statements from several women in the Malayalam film industry detailing the hardships they have faced, Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan convened a meeting with senior police officials here on Sunday," said an official release from the Chief Minister's Office.

"It was decided to form a special investigation team, led by IGP G Sparjan Kumar, to look into these complaints and revelations." Following the release of the Hema Committee Report last week, which revealed numerous instances of sexual abuse in the film industry, many women have come forward, reporting experiences of sexual harassment in the industry. The CMO release stated that the investigation team would include senior women police officers and operate under the supervision of Crime Branch ADGP H Venkatesh. Kerala Health Minister Veena George Says ‘Govt Will Not Protect Anyone Guilty of Wrongdoing Against Women in Malayalam Film Industry’ After Director Ranjith and Actor Siddique’s Resignations.

The members of the special team are IGP G Sparjan Kumar, DIG S Ajeetha Beegum, SP Crime Branch HQ Merin Joseph, AIG Coastal Police G Poonkuzhali, Assistant Director of the Kerala Police Academy Aishwarya Dongre, AIG Law & Order Ajith V, and SP Crime Branch S. Madhusoodanan. Renowned filmmaker Ranjith resigned as Kerala Chalachitra Academy Chairman on Sunday morning following sexual assault allegations, according to the Kerala Cultural Minister's Office.

Ranjith's resignation came after Bengali actor Sreelekha Mitra accused him of misbehaving with her in 2009. Last week, a redacted version of the Justice Hema Committee report on harassment faced by women in the Malayalam cinema industry was made public. It contains shocking accounts of harassment, exploitation, and ill-treatment of women professionals. Bengali Actress Accuses Director Ranjith of Misconduct; Saji Cherian Defends Filmmaker As ‘Innocent’, Demands ‘Written Complaint’.

The 235-page report, published after redacting the names of witnesses and the accused, notes that the Malayalam film industry is controlled by about 10 to 15 male producers, directors, and actors who dominate and exert control over the industry. The report confirms the rumoured existence of the "casting couch" practice in the industry. Based on testimonies from 51 industry professionals, it reveals shocking details about the exploitation of women, including the existence of casting couches and poor working conditions.

The report states that harassment begins at the outset, with women being asked to make "adjustments" and "compromises"--euphemisms for sexual favours--to secure roles. The Committee also found that women are denied basic human rights, such as access to toilets and changing rooms, even on sets. Women often have to find secluded spots to change or use the bathroom during outdoor shoots, with no access to water or basic facilities.

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