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The Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) is facing a moment of reckoning, as allegations of sexual exploitation in the Malayalam film industry have cast a long shadow over the organization's three decades of existence. The release of the K. Hema Committee report, detailing the problems faced by women in the industry, has triggered a wave of resignations and accusations, exposing a deeply entrenched culture of silence and inaction within AMMA.
The report's findings have resulted in the dissolution of AMMA's executive committee, including its president, actor Mohanlal. The decision to disband came after a series of resignations, most notably that of actor Siddique, who stepped down as general secretary following accusations of sexual assault. Other prominent figures accused of sexual abuse include MLA Mukesh, former general secretaries Edavela Babu and Siddique, and actors Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Sudheesh. The Kerala Police have registered cases against these individuals.
While AMMA claims to be a welfare organization dedicated to promoting the interests of its members, the report highlights a disturbing pattern of complacency and complicity in perpetuating the abuse of women in the industry. The report criticizes AMMA's inaction in addressing complaints of sexual harassment and points to the existence of a power group within the industry that exerts significant control. This power group, according to the report, is able to effectively silence dissent and punish those who dare to speak out against its members.
The report's findings echo the experiences of prominent actors like Thilakan, who was expelled from AMMA in 2010 for criticizing the organization's leadership and alleging the existence of a powerful, controlling clique. Thilakan's ordeal is a stark reminder of the consequences faced by those who challenge the status quo within the Malayalam film industry. This pattern of silencing dissent has contributed to a culture of fear and intimidation that has hindered victims from coming forward with their experiences.
AMMA's history is marked by several other controversies, including its reinstatement of actor Dileep, who was accused of sexual assault, and its initial resistance to forming an Internal Complaints Committee (ICC) in line with the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, 2013. These incidents further demonstrate AMMA's failure to prioritize the safety and well-being of its women members and its willingness to protect its powerful members at the expense of justice.
The current crisis facing AMMA presents an opportunity for fundamental change. The organization must move beyond its history of silence and inaction and take concrete steps to create a safe and inclusive environment for all its members. This requires a comprehensive reform agenda that includes the establishment of a robust ICC, transparent disciplinary procedures, and a commitment to holding its members accountable for their actions. Only through genuine introspection, accountability, and a commitment to systemic change can AMMA hope to regain the trust of its members and the public.
Source: Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes | AMMA’s moment of reckoning