The Justice Hema Committee report has sparked controversy in the Malayalam film industry, leading to calls for similar committees to address sexual harassment in all Indian film industries. 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 issues of sexual harassment and abuse in the industry.
Key figures in the film fraternity share their perspectives on this issue:
- NM Suresh, President of the Karnataka Film Chamber, acknowledges the directive from the Karnataka State Commission for Women to address women's safety in the industry and commits to organizing a meeting with female artists.
- Sa Ra Govindu, former President of the Producers' Association and Film Chamber, questions the resurgence of the #MeToo issue in the Kannada industry and expresses confidence in the film chamber's ability to handle industry matters.
- Ba Ma Harish, producer and former President of the film chamber, emphasizes the importance of consent in all interactions between men and women, stating that any forced situations should be legally addressed as #MeToo incidents.
