Malayalam cinema legend Mohanlal made his first public appearance today, August 31, just days after stepping down as the President of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA). During his address, he spoke out about the findings of the Hema Committee Report, which has exposed cases of sexual assault against women in the Malayalam film industry. Mohanlal urged the public not to “destroy the industry” amidst the ongoing investigations.
“We request you not to put all the focus on AMMA. The investigation is ongoing. Please don’t destroy the industry,” Mohanlal stated on Saturday, as reported by ANI.
Mohanlal’s resignation from AMMA on August 27 came after allegations of sexual abuse were raised against some members of the association’s governing body. He stepped down citing moral responsibility.
Addressing the media, Mohanlal expressed support for the Hema Committee report, saying, “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 to everyone. This is a very hardworking industry with many involved in it. But not everyone can be blamed for this. Those responsible will be punished; the investigation is ongoing.”
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He assured that the issues highlighted in the report are being thoroughly investigated. “We will cooperate in the investigation process. We are here only to set things right. I am not aware of any such power group, and I am not a part of it. I have not read the Hema Committee report,” Mohanlal added.
The release of the Hema Committee Report has sparked widespread outrage, with several celebrities coming forward to share their own experiences of harassment and exploitation in the Malayalam film industry.
In a report by Mathrubhumi, Mohanlal was quoted saying, “If you ask why we have all quit our posts (AMMA) now, the answer is that the entire Malayalam film industry is answerable. The report has highlighted not just one issue but several. What exactly they are, you know better than I do.”
Following Mohanlal’s resignation, the entire governing body of AMMA also stepped down. In a statement, the association expressed hope for new leadership that would renew and strengthen the organization. “We are hopeful that AMMA will have a new leadership capable of renewing and strengthening the association. Thanks to everyone for criticising and correcting,” the statement read.
The association has announced that a general body meeting will be held within the next two months to elect a new governing body.
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