2024-08-24 11:48:00
Thiruvananthapuram: There are indications that filmmaker Ranjith may resign from the position of Chairman of the Film Academy. The call for his resignation has emerged in the backdrop of Bengali actress Sreelakshmi Mitra making serious allegations against Ranjith following the release of the Hema Committee report. The actress has claimed that Ranjith behaved inappropriately while filming ‘Palerimanikyam’. She has revealed that there was an attempt at sexual harassment by the director.
Reports suggest that he is preparing to resign in the face of strong protests against Ranjith. The words of Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cheriyan regarding legal action against Ranjith have sparked significant criticism. The minister stated that Ranjith is a distinguished artist and that if the actress comes forward with a complaint, the government will take appropriate legal action.
‘I saw the allegations against Ranjith through the media as well. He has responded to them. Both his response and their accusations are what we have before us. If they have complaints about this, let them come forward. If they do, the procedures related to this will be legally addressed by the government. Can anyone take legal action against someone based on an allegation? Has there been any case like that standing in Kerala? Those who raised the allegations should file a complaint. If anyone has a complaint against Ranjith, the Chief Minister himself has stated that strong action will be taken if a written complaint is provided. Can I say that there is some fact in this without investigating it? He has completely denied it. So then, is there any need to subject it to an investigation?
Ranjith is holding the position of Chairman of the Film Academy as part of a political decision. It is for the party to decide whether to remove him or not. If there is any truth in the allegations, the CPI(M) party will surely not sit idle. A political decision will then be made regarding that,’ said Saji Cheriyan.
There has been severe criticism regarding the minister’s stance. Opposition leader V.D. Satheesan has demanded that Ranjith resign from the position of Chairman of the Film Academy. Satheesan also criticized that Saji Cheriyan is unfit to remain a minister. The Youth Congress has filed a complaint against Ranjith. The Youth Congress also organized protests demanding Saji Cheriyan’s resignation.
Meanwhile, the Women’s Commission has entered the scene, rejecting Minister Saji Cheriyan’s stance on the actress’s allegations. Chairperson P. Sadeevi stated that they can conduct an investigation once they are informed. It is believed that the government will be ready to take action upon conducting a preliminary inquiry based on the allegations. If the allegations have already been disclosed to the media, they can also investigate regarding that, Sadeevi said.
Allegations by Sreelakshmi Mitra
Sreelakshmi Mitra stated that she had a bad experience when she arrived for the shooting of ‘Palerimanikyam: A Night Murder’ in 2009. ‘Initially, he started touching me inappropriately. I thought it was because he had never encountered such things before. When the touching got close to my neck, I suddenly left that room. I left that room out of fear. It was a place and people I didn’t know. I was scared that someone might come into my room at night. I don’t think there is much point in going legally forward,’ the actress told Mathrubhumi News.
Regarding the incident, director Joshi Joseph stated to Mathrubhumi News that the actress had informed him on that day. ‘I have been in Kolkata for twenty-four years. That is how Bengali actress Sreelakshmi Mitra was suggested for Ranjith’s film. At that time, I was in Kochi, and she called me. She asked if I could come to Kochi as soon as possible. I took an auto to the hotel and brought her home. My aunt was there, but I didn’t mention the matter.
She also claimed that she was responsible and that they (Ranjith) have taken advantage of her. She commented that Malayali men think that women who smoke cigarettes are available. At that time, she shared the details with me. Later, they went to the flat. Father Agustin Vattoly and writer K.R. Meera are aware of this from twelve years ago,’ said Joshi Joseph.
Future Trends in the Entertainment Industry: Addressing Accountability and Representation
The recent allegations against renowned director Ranjith have triggered significant discussions within the Kerala film industry regarding accountability and the treatment of women in the arts. With claims of sexual misconduct emerging from actress Sreelekha Mitra, the situation underscores a growing demand for transparency and proper conduct in filmmaking environments. Such revelations have made it increasingly crucial for film bodies to implement strict guidelines that protect individuals from harassment.
As more voices come forward, we can foresee a trend where industry stakeholders, including production houses and film academies, will prioritize creating safer workplaces. This shift may entail the establishment of dedicated teams to handle complaints and facilitate inquiries, mimicking protocols established in other industries. Furthermore, these events could lead to enhanced representation of women in decision-making roles within film organizations, ensuring that diverse perspectives are included in discussions on harassment policies and culture change.
In addition, the growing power of social media as a platform for raising awareness about misconduct highlights a significant shift in how such issues are addressed. Audiences are increasingly holding creators accountable for their actions, which could spur real change. Filmmakers who promote ethical practices and nurture a positive working environment may attract broader support from viewers, leading to changes in consumer behavior that favor projects rooted in inclusivity and respect.
Legislatively, we might see governments responding to these shifts with more stringent laws to protect victims and enable easier reporting of misconduct. As conversations around these issues expand globally, they may influence international film relations and collaborations, encouraging a culture of respect and equality across borders.
Ultimately, the incidents surrounding Ranjith and the ensuing reactions could be pivotal in shaping a more accountable and progressive entertainment industry, where the safety and rights of all individuals are paramount. The trajectory here suggests a movement toward not only greater accountability but also a broader commitment to inclusivity and ethical standards in the arts.