The release of the Justice Hema Committee report has sparked controversy in the Malayalam film industry, leading to calls for similar committees to be established in other Indian film industries to address issues of sexual harassment. In the Kannada industry, members of the Film Industry For Rights and Equality (FIRE) recently met with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to discuss creating a safe working environment for female artists. Subsequently, the film chamber held a meeting with female artists on September 16 to address concerns of sexual harassment and abuse in the industry. Here are some perspectives from prominent members of the film community on the matter:
- NM Suresh, President of the Karnataka Film Chamber, stated that the Karnataka State Commission for Women had directed them to hold a meeting regarding women's safety in the industry, and they would be organizing a meet-up with female artists to address these issues.
- Sa Ra Govindu, former President of the Producers' Association and Film Chamber, expressed confusion about the resurgence of the #MeToo issue in the Kannada industry, emphasizing that there was no valid reason for protest. He asserted that the film chamber was adept at handling industry matters, and urged any affected party to approach them directly.
- Ba Ma Harish, a producer and former President of the film chamber, highlighted the importance of consent in interactions between men and women in the industry. He stated that if actions were consensual, there should be no interference, but if coercion was involved, it should be addressed as a #MeToo situation and handled legally.
