Sexual Harassment in Mollywood: FIRs Against Jayasurya and Mukesh

The Kerala Police have registered FIRs against actors Jayasurya and Mukesh M in separate sexual harassment cases involving actresses from the Malayalam film industry.

• The second FIR against Jayasurya was filed under sections 354 (assault or criminal force to woman with intent to outrage her modesty) and 354A (sexual harassment) of the IPC.
• The FIR against Mukesh M, a CPI(M) MLA, was registered based on the complaint of actress Minu Muneer.
• Muneer has accused Mukesh, Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Idavela Babu of verbal and physical abuse during film projects.

Allegations of Abuse and Exploitation

Sonia Malhar, another actress, has come forward with shocking incidents of mistreatment and exploitation during her initial years in the industry.

• She alleges an incident on a film set in Thodupuzha where someone unexpectedly held her.
• After the incident, she faced difficulties such as delayed payments and being replaced in announced projects.
• Malhar decided to speak out after learning about similar experiences of actresses from other states.

Minu Muneer's Allegations Against Actors

Minu Muneer has detailed her allegations against the actors, accusing them of various forms of misconduct.

• She alleges that Jayasurya hugged her from behind and forcefully kissed her.
• Idavela Babu allegedly expressed interest in a sexual relationship with her.
• Muneer also accuses Maniyanpilla Raju of making inappropriate suggestions regarding her hotel accommodation.

Fallout from the #MeToo Movement in Mollywood

The allegations surfaced after the resignation of director Ranjith and actor Siddique from the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) following separate accusations against them.

• Muneer initially shared her allegations on Facebook, detailing incidents dating back to 2013.
• She stated that the abuse led her to leave the Malayalam film industry and relocate to Chennai.
• The allegations are part of the ongoing #MeToo movement in the Malayalam film industry (Mollywood).

Investigation and Further Action

The Kerala Police have initiated investigations into the sexual harassment complaints against the actors.

• The FIR against Jayasurya was registered after the complainant's statement was recorded.
• The FIR against Mukesh M was registered based on Minu Muneer's complaint.
• A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has taken the statement of the actress (Minu Muneer).