Punishment for the Accused, Not Collective Blame, Says Mohanlal
While addressing the media in Kerala, former Malayalam actor and former actors’ association president Mohanlal said that the responsible would be punished and added that everyone from the industry couldn’t be blamed for the revelations happening following the release of the Hema Committee report. The renowned actor Mohanlal denied being part of the “power group” mentioned in the report and emphasised that the entire Malayalam film industry, not just AMMA, should take collective responsibility for the issues highlighted in the report.
“We request you not to put all the focus on AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Artists). Investigation is going on… Please don’t destroy the industry… We welcome the Hema Committee report. It was the right decision by the government to release that report. AMMA cannot answer all the questions. These questions should be asked from everyone. This is a very hardworking industry and many people are involved in it, but everyone cannot be blamed for this and those who are responsible will be punished, the investigation is going on…,” Mohanlal said. He added that cinema is only a slice of society, but he doesn’t justify what has happened rather the vulnerable and innocent artists cannot be wholly blamed.
Also, read| “Never Ran Away, Not Part Of Power Group”: Mohanlal’s Top 10 Quotes On Hema Committee Report
Mohanlal was pressed on why he took so long to speak out by media personalities, he explained that his delayed response to the #MeToo allegations was due to personal reasons, including his wife’s surgery and other family commitments. As a result, he had to postpone the release of his films, acknowledging that the current time was not suitable.
He stressed that the film industry, including AMMA, is an integral part of society and must address the findings of the Hema Committee report. Mohanlal defended AMMA, stating that it is an organisation established for the welfare of its members and doesn’t stand as a trade union. The association and he are being unfairly targeted, with most questions being directed at him and the organisation. He also added that his decision to resign from his duties at AMMA was taken after consulting with lawyers.
He also highlighted that AMMA has continued to support its members, paying pension, insurance, housing, and organising medical camps without interruption. He clarified that the decision to resign was made after consulting all officebearers through Google Meet. Mohanlal expressed his concerns that the Malayalam film industry is on the verge of collapse and that the whole community consists of a myriad number of artists. He stressed that his resignation from AMMA is neither defeat nor cowardly, but rather a necessary step amidst unnecessary accusations.
Also, read| Mohanlal Resigns As AMMA President, Executive Committee Disbanded
He acknowledged the Hema Committee report’s recommendations, which can help the film industry move forward positively and urged individuals to report troubles to the police rather than crucifying one organisation ensuring the need for equal justice for all.
As a long-time member of the Malayalam film industry, Mohanlal expressed sentimentality and sadness. He called for efforts to prevent complaints from happening again and stressed AMMA’s original purpose. He invited others to stand with AMMA, promising mutual support for a good cause but not to deny or refuse the Hema Committee report or allegations against the accused actors. Mohanlal also suggested avoiding unnecessary focus on WCC and AMMA but the broader Malayalam cinema industry and its various organisations in lieu. He also stated that there are 21 organisations in the industry which can be led only through cooperation and sincere commitment.
