MeToo movement in Malayalam film industry: Actor Jayasurya has firmly denied recent sexual harassment allegations against him and has announced his intention to take legal action. These allegations arise amidst a broader wave of accusations involving notable figures in the Malayalam film industry, including veteran actor Siddique and filmmaker Ranjith Balakrishnan.
Two separate cases have been filed against Jayasurya by different actors. He maintains that these accusations are unfounded and is committed to clearing his name through the legal system.
In an Instagram post, Jayasurya stated, “I have decided to move forward with this legally. My legal team will be looking after the rest of the proceedings regarding this case.”
He expressed his frustration over the ease with which false accusations can be made, commenting, “False allegations are easy to make for anyone who lacks a conscience. I only hope people realize that facing a false accusation of harassment is just as painful as the harassment itself.”
Jayasurya also highlighted his belief that the truth will ultimately prevail, despite the rapid spread of misinformation. “A lie always travels faster than the truth, but I believe truth will prevail. All the legal proceedings to prove my innocence will continue. I have complete faith in our judicial system,” he added. He expressed gratitude to his supporters while noting the emotional toll this situation has taken on him, particularly around his birthday.
Among those accusing Jayasurya is actor Minu Muneer, who also implicated actor M Mukesh in her allegations. Muneer described a distressing incident that reportedly occurred during the filming of a movie in 2013.
In her statement to the media, Muneer recounted, “I had a bitter experience while shooting for a film. I had gone to the toilet, and when I came out, Jayasurya hugged me from behind and kissed me without my consent. I was shocked and ran out.” She further alleged that Jayasurya had offered her more roles in exchange for spending time with him.
The allegations against Jayasurya are part of a larger reckoning within the Malayalam film industry. Following the release of the Hema Committee report, numerous actresses have made serious accusations against various actors.
For several years, allegations of sexual exploitation of female artists in the Malayalam film industry have surfaced. In 2019, a three-member committee was established under the chairmanship of retired Justice Hema to investigate these claims. After four years, the committee submitted a 233-page report to the Kerala government on August 19, revealing instances of exploitation involving many prominent figures.
Since the release of the Justice Hema Committee report, actresses in the Malayalam film industry have continued to voice accusations against several well-known actors and filmmakers.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the case against Jayasurya will be closely monitored, given the broader context of sexual harassment allegations impacting the Malayalam film industry. The outcomes may establish a precedent for how such cases are addressed within Kerala’s entertainment sector.
