The release of the Justice Hema Committee report has caused controversy in the Malayalam film industry. This has led to a push for similar committees to be established in other Indian film industries to address sexual harassment issues. 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. Following this, the film chamber held a meeting with female artists on September 16 to address sexual harassment and other forms of abuse in the industry. Various members of the film fraternity have shared their perspectives on the matter:
- NM Suresh, President of the Karnataka Film Chamber, stated that the Karnataka State Commission for Women has directed them to hold a meeting on women's safety in the industry, and they plan to do so with all female artists.
- Sa Ra Govindu, former President of the Producers' Association and Film Chamber, questioned the resurgence of the #MeToo issue in the Kannada industry, emphasizing that there is allegedly nothing to challenge. He expressed confidence in the film chamber's ability to handle industry matters and encouraged any affected party to reach out for assistance.
- Ba Ma Harish, a producer and former President of the film chamber, stressed the importance of mutual consent in interactions between men and women within the industry. He acknowledged that unwanted advances constitute a #MeToo situation, which can be addressed legally.
