Mohanlal, the former president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), has stepped down amid a growing controversy surrounding sexual abuse allegations in the Malayalam film industry. His resignation comes in the wake of the Hema Committee report, which highlighted serious issues of sexual harassment within the industry, leading to a wave of accusations against prominent figures.
On August 27, Mohanlal announced his resignation during an emergency online meeting of AMMA’s executive committee, which subsequently dissolved itself. This decision was driven by moral obligations in light of the allegations against several committee members. The report revealed that many members were implicated in the ongoing #MeToo movement, prompting calls for accountability and reform within the organization.
Critics, including author Shobhaa De, have condemned Mohanlal for his resignation, suggesting that he should have remained in his position to advocate for justice for the survivors. De accused him of cowardice, urging him to take a stand against the culture of silence that has allowed such abuses to persist.
The Kerala government has responded to the crisis by forming a special investigative team to address the allegations. The fallout from the Hema Committee report has not only shaken AMMA but has also sparked a broader conversation about the treatment of women in the film industry, with many calling for systemic changes to ensure safety and justice for all artists. A new leadership for AMMA is expected to be elected within the next two months.
