The Kerala government has released the highly anticipated Hema Committee Report on August 19 redacting some portions. The report, although only partially released to protect the privacy of individuals, paints a grim picture of the industry’s treatment of its most marginalised workers.

1. Widespread Exploitation: The report reveals systemic sexual exploitation and casting couch practices in the Malayalam film industry.
2. Culture of Fear: Survivors fear retaliation and industry blacklisting, preventing them from reporting abuses.
3. Undeclared Banning: Women and WCC members face industry bans for speaking out against exploitation.
4. Basic Facilities Ignored: Women on set often lack essential facilities like toilets, causing health issues.
5. Powerful ‘Mafia’ Culture: The industry is controlled by a “mafia” that includes top actors, directors, and producers, creating a hostile environment for women.
6. Harassment Normalisation: Sexual harassment is widespread and often justified by industry misconceptions about women’s roles.
7. Lack of Institutional Trust: Victims doubt the effectiveness of legal institutions and fear they won’t be protected.
8. Junior Artists’ Life ‘Worse Than Slaves’: They receive minimal wages and endure poor working conditions and inadequate support.
9. Inconsistent Reporting: Witnesses, including some prominent figures, are hesitant to report or speak out due to fear of repercussions.
10. Government Response: The Kerala government is expected to address issues raised in the report but faces significant challenges