Malayalam actor Jayasurya faces second FIR over sexual assault allegations
What's the story
Malayalam actor Jayasurya has been hit with a second First Information Report (FIR) over allegations of sexual misconduct.
The charges against Jayasurya are under Sections 354, 354A(1)(i), and 354D of the IPC, relating to assault or criminal force to a woman to outrage her modesty, sexual harassment, and stalking, respectively.
The recent FIR against Jayasurya follows the Hema Committee report, which revealed numerous instances of sexual harassment within the Malayalam film industry.
Police action
Case registered after recording complainant's statement: Kerala Police
The Kerala Police confirmed the FIR, and reportedly stated, "The case was registered after the complainant's statement was recorded."
"FIR has been registered in Thiruvananthapuram and will be transferred to Thodupuzha Police Station."
This complaint follows an earlier FIR against the actor, filed under similar sections, signaling a growing pattern of allegations against him.
The complainant is identified as actor Sonia Malhar.
Complainant's account
Complainant recounts distressing experiences in the industry
In an interview, Malhar recounted an incident that occurred shortly after she entered the film industry in 2013.
During a shoot, she was subjected to inappropriate behavior by a male actor.
"After doing one or two films, there was an incident on a film set. When I arrived on location, I noticed that unlike the usual practice where junior artists are not introduced to the lead actors, I received some respect because of my social work background," she explained.
Detail
'Role promised to me was given to someone else...'
Malhar further described how she was later led to a building where the makeup room was located.
"When I went to the toilet and came back, someone unexpectedly held me. I was terrified, and he later apologized."
However, the trauma didn't end there. She stated that after this incident, she faced significant professional setbacks, including delayed payments and being replaced in projects.
"After this news spread, a role that was promised to me was given to someone else," she lamented.
Industry impact
Allegations highlight deep-rooted issues of harassment in film industry
The actor also emphasized the shame and silence that victims often face when speaking out against powerful figures.
"It is shameful that a woman from another state cannot even be shown the respect she deserves. When a woman speaks out against the head of the Film Academy, one would expect some shame," Malhar added.
The allegations against Jayasurya aren't isolated.
Investigation
Special Investigation Team formed to probe allegations
In addition to Malhar, actor Minu Muneer has also accused actors Mukesh M, Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Idavela Babu of verbal and physical abuse.
Speaking to ANI, Muneer detailed her experiences: "Once, as I was coming out from the toilet, Jayasurya hugged me from behind and even kissed me forcefully...After that, Babu expressed his interest in a sexual relationship with me," she claimed.
She stated that the abuse led her to leave the Malayalam film industry and relocate to Chennai.