By Our Correspondent
Thiruvananthapuram: A special investigation team has been formed under IG Spurgeon Kumar to probe sexual harassment allegations experienced by women working in the Malayalam film industry. The decision was made at a meeting of senior police officials convened by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan.
The special investigation team, which includes senior female officers, will be overseen by Crime Branch ADGP H. Venkatesh. The team comprises IG Spurgeon Kumar, DIG S. Ajeetha Begum, Crime Branch SP Merin Joseph, Coastal Police AIG G. Poonkuzhali, Assistant Director of the Police Academy Aishwarya Dongre, AIG Ajith V., and Crime Branch SP S. Madhusoodanan.
Initially, the government had maintained that it would only investigate if complaints arose from the Hema Committee report and subsequent revelations. However, the government has taken this significant step in response to widespread criticism. The investigation will reportedly focus on allegations against actor Siddique and director Ranjith.
In the context of female film industry workers revealing their experiences of harassment, the Chief Minister convened a meeting with senior police officials.
After the initial investigation by the special team, action will be taken against those found guilty. Complaints from social media and other sources will be accepted. However, the Hema Committee report itself will not directly prompt legal action; instead, complainants will be able to approach the investigation team.
The team will also collect evidence from those who have made allegations. If complaints are found to be substantiated, cases will be registered and investigations carried out as advised. The government sought legal advice regarding this action, leading to the decision to proceed.
