“This is completely untrue” – Justice Hema Committee

New Delhi: In a new development following the Justice Committee Hema report, actor Nivin Pauly is accused of sexual abuse and harassment. The Kerala Police has filed a non-bailable case against the actor for allegedly assaulting an aspiring actress.

The survivor filed a complaint with the police in Ernakulam, alleging that the actor took her to Dubai on the pretext of offering her a role in a film, where he sexually assaulted her in November 2023. After receiving the complaint, the police reportedly conducted a preliminary investigation before filing charges and five other people, including a film producer, were charged.

Nivin Pauly is said to be the sixth accused.

The case was registered by the Oonnukal police in Ernakulam.

Responding to the said allegations, Nivin Pauly released a statement denying these allegations as “completely untrue”. On his official X handle, he wrote, “I have come across a false report accusing me of molesting a girl. Please be aware that this is completely untrue. I am determined to do everything I can to prove these allegations are baseless and will take all necessary steps to bring to light those responsible. Thank you for your concern. The rest will be dealt with legally.”

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— Nivin Pauly (@NivinOfficial) 3 September 2024

This comes in the backdrop of several allegations levelled against many actors from the Malayalam film industry. Investigations are underway against Mukesh, Jayasurya, Siddique and director Ranjith. The Kerala government has set up a special investigation team for this purpose.

Only recently, the National Commission for Women (NCW) raised concerns over the publication of the incomplete report of the Hema Judicial Committee. According to a press release dated September 1, 2024, the NCW demanded the publication of the full report.

“The Commission has noted with concern the findings of the Hema Committee report which have been discussed in various media. The report highlights serious problems such as workplace harassment, gender discrimination and other forms of exploitation which adversely affect women in the Malayalam film industry,” it said.

“In response to these concerns, the NCW has taken steps to request the full report of the Hema Committee, as it appears that only parts of it are currently publicly available. The Commission is committed to continuing its efforts to raise these matters with the relevant authorities to ensure that women's rights are upheld and that a safe, equitable working environment is promoted in the industry,” the statement added.

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