Malayalam actor Nivin Pauly is facing serious allegations of sexual harassment. A case has been filed against him for allegedly assaulting a woman under the guise of offering her a role in a movie. The complaint names six individuals, including Pauly as the sixth accused. The incident reportedly occurred in Dubai in November 2023. Malayalam producer AK Sunil is also among the accused, listed as the second in the case. The Oonnukal police have registered the complaint, and the case will be handed over to a Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed by the government to thoroughly investigate these new allegations.
Nivin Pauly Sexual Assault Allegations
Nivin Pauly’s case adds to a troubling trend of sexual assault allegations within the Malayalam film industry. This wave of accusations follows the recent release of the Justice Hema Committee Report, which exposed widespread misconduct. The report led to FIRs against nine prominent film personalities, including Mukesh, Siddique, Jayasurya, Edavela Babu, Maniyan Pillai Raju, directors Ranjith and V. K. Prakash, and production executives Vichu and Noble. These revelations have shed light on the pervasive nature of sexual harassment in the industry, prompting widespread shock and concern.
Legal Proceedings and Interim Relief
The legal fallout from these accusations is ongoing, with significant implications for those involved. Mukesh has been granted interim relief from arrest until Wednesday. While film director Ranjith has sought anticipatory bail from the Kerala High Court, alleging that he is being falsely implicated. The SIT is actively investigating these cases, aiming to ensure justice for the victims. The legal process is expected to bring more details to light and may have lasting effects on the industry as a whole.
Resignations and Industry Response
In response to the scandal, Mohanlal, the president of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA). He has resigned along with the entire 17-member executive committee. This collective resignation highlights the seriousness of the situation. Also reflects a broader call for accountability and reform within the industry. The move underscores the need for systemic changes to address and prevent sexual misconduct, signaling a critical moment for the Malayalam film industry to confront and rectify these deep-seated issues.