People facing allegations must step down, lapses on part of AMMA: Prithviraj on Hema Committee report

Prithviraj said he was not shocked by the findings of the report and he was one of those who appeared before the committee to give a statement.

Actor-producer Prithviraj addressing the media in Kochi. Express photo | TP Sooraj

KOCHI: Actor and producer Prithviraj Sukumaran on Monday said that those in positions who are facing allegations after the release of the Hema Committee report should step down and face the investigation.

Addressing a news conference in Kochi on Monday, he also admitted there were lapses on the part of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) while dealing with complaints of sexual harassment, and added that there should be strong interventions from the organisation.

"These allegations should be taken seriously. There should be a thorough investigation against the accused, and if the allegations are proven, strict action should be taken. Also, if they are proved to be allegations with other intentions, those who made false allegations should be punished," the actor-producer said.

Talking about the findings of the report, he said that he was not shocked. "I am one of those who appeared before the committee to give a statement. I am not shocked, rather, I am looking forward to knowing the steps taken by the authorities to implement the recommendations."

When asked about the presence of a power group in the Malayalam film industry, as mentioned in the Hema Committee report, he said, "I cannot say it doesn't exist because I haven't experienced it. If at all it is present, the group should also be held accountable. If there are people who are affected by such a group, their grievances should be addressed," he said.

The Aadujeevitham headliner also added that one thing he can do is ensure that the shooting sets of his films are safe for everyone, but it is not enough.

In reply to a question, Prithviraj said he was also of the view that women representatives should hold prominent positions in organisations such as AMMA.

Commenting on the unofficial ban in the industry against those who speak up citing the example of Parvathy Thiruvothu, he said, "Before Parvathy, there was me, right? I'm a victim of it, right? If a group is still trying to obstruct job opportunities in cinema, it should be addressed. Legal actions must be taken against them because no one has the right to do such things to anyone."

"Whether I choose to make a clear statement or not, I can promise one thing today: I will create a safe environment for everyone on my sets only. But I will ensure a good workspace around me. Saying I have no involvement in other matters is not right, and no one cannot escape the responsibility for such things," he concluded.