Case Against Actor Jayasurya Filed After Complainant's Statement Recorded
Actor Jayasurya landed in trouble as police registered one more sexual assault case against him on Thursday.After the release of the Hema Committee report, a number of women from the Malayalam film industry have publicly accused individuals of sexual harassment.
Rape Case Against MLA And Actor Mukesh: Mollywood #MeToo Top Developments
While speaking to ANI, Sonia Malhar recounted her entry into the film industry in 2013 and an incident that occurred shortly after she had completed one or two films. The event took place on a film set in Thodupuzha. Upon arriving at the location, she observed an unusual level of respect extended to her, which was atypical for junior artists who are generally not introduced to the lead actors.
This respectful treatment, she believes, was influenced by her background in social work. The director, who usually does not engage with junior artists in such a manner, made an exception in her case. He approached her personally, shook her hand—a gesture she found notable—and introduced her to the lead actor and actress. This experience stood out to her as a significant departure from the standard industry practices she had previously encountered.
She continued, “I was told to get my makeup done and change into my costume and there was a note about a small change in location.” The makeup and costume room, along with the toilet facilities, were in an old building nearby. After using the toilet and returning, someone unexpectedly grabbed me, leaving me terrified. The individual later apologized for the incident.”
After that incident, I faced a series of challenges. The payments for the films I was working on were delayed, and I was replaced even after the film had been officially announced in newspapers and on TV. Additionally, once news of the incident became public, a role that had been promised to me was reassigned to someone else.
This situation created significant setbacks in my career and made it increasingly difficult for me to secure and maintain roles in the industry,” she added.
Sonia Malhar revealed that she chose to speak out about her experiences after learning that actresses from other states had faced similar mistreatment. She felt compelled to share her own story, driven by a sense of solidarity and a desire to address the broader issue of exploitation in the industry.
It’s disgraceful that a woman from another state isn’t being given the respect she deserves. When a woman voices concerns about the head of the Film Academy, one would expect some acknowledgment and accountability. It’s disappointing that instead of addressing the issue, there’s a lack of respect and consideration for her perspective.
She expressed that the release of the Hema Committee report was followed by a “painful silence from many people,” which deeply “hurt” her.
On August 28, the first FIR was filed against actor and CPI (M) MLA from Kollam, Mukesh M, in response to a complaint lodged by actress Minu Muneer. This marks a significant development in the ongoing legal situation involving the two individuals.
On Thursday, the Kerala Police told ANI, “An FIR has been filed against actor Mukesh, who is also the CPI (M) MLA from Kollam constituency. This action was taken based on a complaint lodged by an actress.” The registration of this FIR marks a notable step in the legal proceedings involving Mukesh and the actress.
The police also announced that a second FIR has been filed against actor Jayasurya, following a complaint by the same actress. This FIR, registered under Section 354, addresses charges related to the intent to outrage modesty. This development further intensifies the ongoing legal issues involving both actors.
The Special Investigation Team (SIT) recorded the actress’s statement yesterday (Wednesday).
Ms. Muneer has accused actors Mukesh M, Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Idavela Babu of verbal and physical abuse during their work together on various film projects.
In an interview with ANI, Ms. Muneer described her troubling experiences, alleging various forms of misconduct. She claimed, “Once, as I was leaving the restroom, Jayasurya hugged me from behind and kissed me forcefully.
Following that incident, Idavela Babu made advances towards me, expressing interest in a sexual relationship. These actions were deeply disturbing and contributed to a pattern of inappropriate behavior I experienced while working on film projects with them.”
She also recounted distressing interactions with Maniyanpilla Raju, who made inappropriate suggestions about her hotel accommodations.
These allegations emerged shortly after director Ranjith and actor Siddique resigned from their roles in the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) amid separate accusations. The timing of these new claims adds to the ongoing scrutiny and controversy surrounding prominent figures in the industry.
Ms. Muneer first shared her allegations on Facebook, detailing a series of incidents that she claims began in 2013. Her post outlined troubling experiences involving several individuals from the film industry.
Ms. Muneer wrote, “I am reporting a series of incidents involving physical and verbal abuse that I endured from Mukesh, Maniyanpilla Raju, Idavela Babu, Jayasurya, Advocate Chandrasekharan, production controller Noble, and Vichu. These abuses have caused me significant distress and suffering, and I believe it is crucial to bring these matters to light.
She said the abuse drove her to leave the Malayalam film industry and relocate to Chennai for her safety.