Kochi: FEFKA (Film Employees Federation of Kerala) has addressed the shortcomings in the Hema Committee Report and responded to the allegations made by the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC).
FEFKA released a detailed analysis, countering WCC’s claims about the denial of opportunities to its members. The response included a note detailing the number of films acted in by WCC members. It accused some witnesses of creating certain interpretations, like the “Power Group” and “Mafia” narratives, with specific agendas before the Hema Committee.
The analysis states that the Hema Committee Report did not consider all issues equally. When mentioning service conditions, there was no detailed study of working hours or existing wage structures. The report also questioned why the Committee did not share the questionnaire provided to WCC with other film organizations, including FEFKA and AMMA. It suggested that the Committee could have investigated the Power Group and inquired about the documents used to reach its conclusions.
FEFKA also noted that although WCC members such as Parvathy Thiruvothu were approached for roles in over ten films directed by FEFKA members, they chose to opt out due to dissatisfaction with the roles or inadequate remuneration.
According to FEFKA, Parvathy acted in 11 films between 2006, when she entered the industry, and 2018, when WCC was formed. Since then, she has acted in another 11 films. Similarly, Rim Kallingal acted in five films over five years up to 2018 but participated in about seven films and took part in five productions since the formation of the organization. Other members like Sajitha Madathil and Jolly Chirayath also appeared in films directed by FEFKA members. Another member, Vidhu Vincent, directed a film, FEFKA mentioned.
To end discrimination in the industry, FEFKA announced a 26-point action plan, which will be submitted to the government soon.
Key Points in the Action Plan:
- Establish a 24/7 complaint resolution cell for women to address issues and exploitation they face.
- If there is no internal grievance redressal committee on set or if it fails, FEFKA will not cooperate until issues are resolved.
- Production controllers are instructed to share committee members’ phone numbers in all film-related WhatsApp groups.
- If a FEFKA member is involved in serious criminal acts, they will be suspended for a year from the time the crime is confirmed, with a possibility of extending the suspension depending on the nature of the offense.
- If a female member faces job hindrance or social media harassment after raising complaints, the same suspension procedure will apply.
- Discuss with the producers’ organization to standardize food menus on sets and ensure no discrimination in food provided. Request local self-government departments to grant temporary food safety licenses to messes preparing food on sets.
- The government should issue licenses to those coordinating junior artists.
- Discuss with producers to implement a 15-hour workday and service conditions.
This action plan aims to address the issues raised and ensure better working conditions and fairness in the industry.
