Mollywood in Turmoil: Top Directors Resign Amid Harassment Allegations

The Malayalam film industry faces a storm with the Justice K Hema Committee's findings on harassment of women professionals, leading to the resignations of director Ranjith and actor Siddique from prominent positions. Amid mounting political pressure, both figures have vowed to legally contest the allegations against them.

The Malayalam cinema industry was rocked on Sunday by two high-profile resignations following the Justice K Hema Committee's explosive findings of harassment and abuse of women professionals. Director Ranjith stepped down as chairman of a state-run film academy, while actor Siddique quit his role as general secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (A.M.M.A.).

Ranjith faced mounting political pressure after a Bengali female actor accused him of misbehavior years ago. The issue resurfaced following the Hema Committee report. Siddique also faced allegations of sexual assault from a woman actor, prompting his resignation.

The Kerala government has pledged to take stringent action against wrongdoers. Both Ranjith and Siddique have vowed to fight the allegations legally, claiming they have been unfairly targeted.

(With inputs from agencies.)