Justice Hema Committee Report Released
Kartavya Desk Staff
Syllabus: Issues Related to Women
Source: TH, IE
Context: On August 22, the Kerala High Court ordered the state to submit the entire Hema Committee report, including redacted sections, in a sealed cover. This follows a PIL demanding criminal action against offenders named in the report. Released on August 19, four-and-a-half years after its submission, the 233-page report exposes severe discrimination and exploitation of women in the Malayalam film industry.
Background of the case:
In 2017, a Malayalam actress was abducted and assaulted, leading to an investigation that implicated actor Dileep. This event shook the industry and prompted the formation of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) to support the survivors. The Kerala government established the Justice Hema Committee to investigate gender issues in the industry, and the committee submitted a report in 2019 detailing sexual harassment and gender inequality.
Why was it delayed?
The report was delayed for nearly five years due to privacy concerns and sensitive information but was finally released in August 2024. Key findings include widespread sexual harassment, a fear of retribution, dominance by a male “mafia,” lack of basic facilities for women on film sets, and gender pay disparities.
Key Issues Highlighted in the Report:
Highlights | Details
Sexual Abuse | Unwanted physical advances, rape threats, and code names for women willing to compromise.
Casting Couch | Women are forced to exchange sexual favours for jobs; those who comply are labelled as “cooperating artists.”
Safety on Film Sets | Female workers often bring relatives for protection against sexual demands and harassment.
Criminal Influence | Industry affected by criminal elements; female artists are harassed in hotels, often under threat by intoxicated men.
Fear of Consequences | Despite legal protections, women fear the stigma and consequences of reporting sexual harassment.
Cyberthreats | Women in cinema face online harassment, bullying, defamation, and vulgar comments on social media.
Inadequate Facilities | Lack of proper toilet facilities on sets, especially during menstruation, causes discomfort and difficulties.
Inhumane Working Conditions | Junior artists suffer from inadequate pay, slave-like treatment, long hours, and delayed or misappropriated payments.
Key Recommendations of the Report:
• Internal Complaints Committee (ICC): Mandate ICCs under the 2013 Workplace Harassment Act, including FEFKA and AMMA members.
• Independent Tribunal: Suggest an independent tribunal for harassment cases with in-camera proceedings for privacy.
• Written Contracts: Make written contracts mandatory for all workers in the film industry.
• Gender Training: Require cast and crew to complete gender awareness training before production.
• Support for Women Producers: Provide budgetary incentives and loans for films produced by women
Legal framework for Women’s safety:
• Indian Penal Code (BNS): Sections 354, 354A, 509 (sexual offences).
• Workplace Harassment Act, 2013: Mandates Internal Complaints Committees (ICC).
• IT Act, 2000: Addresses obscene digital content.
• POCSO Act, 2012: Protects children from sexual exploitation.
• Immoral Traffic Act, 1956: Prevents trafficking for sexual exploitation.
Mains Links:
What are the continued challenges for Women in India against time and space? (UPSC 2019)
Is the National Commission for Women able to strategize and tackle the problems that women face in both public and private spheres? Give reasons in support of your answer. (UPSC 2017)