Shruti Hariharan Advocates for a Committee Similar to Hema Committee in Sandalwood

Actress Shruti Hariharan has called for the establishment of a committee in the Kannada film industry akin to the Hema Committee formed in Malayalam cinema. This call follows the Kerala government's release of the Hema Committee report, which highlighted disturbing issues of sexual harassment and exploitation faced by female actors in the Malayalam film industry.

The Hema Committee report, released in 2019, has recently gained widespread attention for its revelations about the harassment and exploitation endured by actresses. The report's disclosure has prompted discussions, with Shruti Hariharan expressing strong support for a similar initiative in Kannada cinema.

In a statement to TV9 Kannada Digital, Hariharan praised the Hema Committee report, noting the importance of addressing such issues openly. "I have great respect for the Hema Committee report. For a long time, we discussed these issues privately. Claims of sexual favoritism were often dismissed as jokes within close circles. However, the fact that the government has taken these matters seriously is truly commendable," she said.

Hariharan acknowledged that the report might be seen as damaging to the reputation of the Malayalam film industry. However, she disagreed with this perspective. "It is absolutely incorrect to view it that way. This report pertains to the art of cinema. It is a timely step towards cleaning up certain issues within the industry. We must keep our own house clean," she emphasized.

Echoing similar sentiments expressed by Telugu actress Samantha, Hariharan also highlighted the need for such a committee in Kannada cinema. She believes that the establishment of this committee will bring much-needed transparency and accountability to the industry.

In addition to her advocacy for industry reform, Hariharan shared updates about her current projects. "I have signed on for a film titled 'Cheetah,' which is nearing completion. I am also working on a couple of Tamil films," she mentioned. Hariharan is known for her successful career in Kannada cinema and continues to be a prominent figure in the industry.