People who did not testify before Hema Committee can also file complaints: High Court

KOCHI: The Kerala High Court said that those who did not testify before the Hema Committee regarding exploitation in the film industry can also submit complaints to the nodal officer of the special investigation team, AIG G Poonguzhali. If those who disclose information face threats, they can report that as well, the court said.

The privacy of complainants must be ensured. The Division Bench comprising Justice Dr A.K. Jayasankaran Nambiar and Justice C.S. Sudha clarified that the powers of the nodal officer have been expanded.

The court directed the investigation team to submit reports at regular intervals regarding the actions taken on various complaints. The court made clarification in this regard considering the request from the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC).

The government informed the court that 50 cases have been registered based on the Hema Committee report, and investigation reports have been filed in four of these cases. The counsel for makeup artists stated that those who filed complaints are being expelled from their organizations. The High Court clarified that complainants can approach the court if needed.

The Film Producers’ Association was also added as a party in the petition filed by the WCC. The court accepted actress Ranjini’s application to be included as a party in the petition. The actress had complained that the investigation team continued to contact her even after she filed an application to the Supreme Court to be included as a party in the petition against releasing the Hema Committee report. She also claimed a lack of clarity regarding how her statement was recorded by the Hema Committee. The court emphasized that unwilling individuals should not be forced to participate.