The release of the Hema Committee report on 19 August 2024 – albeit after a delay of four and a half years – will go down as a watershed moment for the Malayalam film industry. Even as sexual harassment allegations remain the key focus, the report identifies at least 17 forms of exploitation, including pay parity, lack of basic facilities, and existence of 'power groups' who silenced women under threat of 'ban'. In the past couple of weeks, the report has unleashed a powerful chain reaction, with several women survivors naming their perpetrators, some of whom are powerful film personalities.

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At The Quint, we are staying focused on giving voices to those who need to be heard as the ripples of the report can now be felt even in other film industries. What we are also seeking in our coverage are answers – Will the report lead to substantive changes or will the findings be buried under the weight of institutional apathy? Can the industry known for the progressive content of its films shed its regressive attitude and create a safe space for all? Can the changes in the Malayalam film industry inspire others to do better?

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