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Parvathy Thiruvothu Criticises Kerala Government Over Inaction in Hema Committee
Updated on: 04 June, 2025 11:11 AM IST |Amruta Karulkar
Parvathy Thiruvothu
More than five years have passed since the Hema Committee submitted its report on issues within the Malayalam film industry, yet decisive action remains elusive. Actor Parvathy Thiruvothu has now vocally challenged the Kerala government`s inertia, bringing renewed attention to the long-promised, yet undelivered, industry reforms. Her sharp critique underscores a growing frustration over the perceived sidelining of systemic issues highlighted by the committee.
Her public call-out gained further traction amid reports that police are planning to close the remaining cases initiated from statements in the committee’s findings. This development is reportedly due to several complainants being unwilling to pursue legal action. Out of 35 cases originally registered by a special investigation team, 21 had already been closed. Reports suggest the remaining 14 might also be withdrawn soon.
Also Read: Malayalam Actor Nivin Pauly an Accused in Gang Rape; Actor Denies Allegations
Following the submission of its comprehensive report, around 40 related complaints were lodged across various police stations. Of these, 30 cases have progressed to the chargesheet stage. These involve several prominent names from the industry, such as Mukesh, Maniyanpilla Raju, Siddique, and director Ranjith, with legal proceedings in these cases currently ongoing.
Parvathy Thiruvothu`s recent comments echo a broader sentiment within the film community. Many, including film editor and Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) member Bina Paul, have criticised the government`s apparent lack of movement. Paul emphasised that the Hema Committee report delves into deeper, structural problems within the industry, extending far beyond individual complaints.
In an earlier interview, Parvathy described the report’s contents as challenging but vital, stating, “I am not okay with the findings,” and viewing it as "a beginning rather than a conclusion." She stressed the urgent need for more voices to join the chorus, ensuring that the committee`s significant findings lead to tangible reforms rather than gathering dust on a shelf. The industry now waits to see if these renewed calls will finally spur the government into concrete action.
"No rush, eh?": Parvathy`s Sarcasm Highlights Delays
Taking to Instagram, Parvathy Thiruvothu didn`t mince words. She directly tagged Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, questioning the prolonged inaction. In a story, she sarcastically remarked, “Now can we focus on the actual reason this committee was formed? Putting policies in place to help make regulations in the industry? What is happening with that? No rush, eh? It’s only been five and a half years since the report was submitted.”Her public call-out gained further traction amid reports that police are planning to close the remaining cases initiated from statements in the committee’s findings. This development is reportedly due to several complainants being unwilling to pursue legal action. Out of 35 cases originally registered by a special investigation team, 21 had already been closed. Reports suggest the remaining 14 might also be withdrawn soon.
Also Read: Malayalam Actor Nivin Pauly an Accused in Gang Rape; Actor Denies Allegations
About The Hema Committee
The Hema Committee was established by the Kerala government with a crucial mandate: to thoroughly investigate the myriad problems plaguing the Malayalam film industry, especially those impacting female actors and professionals. Its formation was a direct response to widespread allegations of sexual harassment and mistreatment, including the highly publicised 2017 actress assault case that sent shockwaves across the nation and triggered the #MeToo movement in the regional industry.Following the submission of its comprehensive report, around 40 related complaints were lodged across various police stations. Of these, 30 cases have progressed to the chargesheet stage. These involve several prominent names from the industry, such as Mukesh, Maniyanpilla Raju, Siddique, and director Ranjith, with legal proceedings in these cases currently ongoing.
Parvathy Thiruvothu`s recent comments echo a broader sentiment within the film community. Many, including film editor and Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) member Bina Paul, have criticised the government`s apparent lack of movement. Paul emphasised that the Hema Committee report delves into deeper, structural problems within the industry, extending far beyond individual complaints.
In an earlier interview, Parvathy described the report’s contents as challenging but vital, stating, “I am not okay with the findings,” and viewing it as "a beginning rather than a conclusion." She stressed the urgent need for more voices to join the chorus, ensuring that the committee`s significant findings lead to tangible reforms rather than gathering dust on a shelf. The industry now waits to see if these renewed calls will finally spur the government into concrete action.
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