Mukesh M, an actor and CPI(M) MLA from Kollam, has been accused of rape following a complaint from actress Minu Muneer. This allegation comes amidst a wave of accusations against prominent figures in the Malayalam film industry.
Minu Muneer has claimed that the abuse she suffered led her to leave the Malayalam film industry and move to Chennai. Mukesh M, however, has denied all allegations, stating that Muneer attempted to blackmail him and labeling the case as politically motivated.
Muneer has also accused actors Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju, Idavela Babu, and others of verbal and physical abuse during their collaborations on films. In a public statement, she detailed instances of abuse, including an incident where Jayasurya allegedly hugged and kissed her forcefully and another where Idavela Babu made inappropriate advances.
Mukesh M responded to the accusations by asserting his innocence and suggesting that he is being politically targeted, similar to a situation in 2018. He welcomed the ongoing investigations and emphasized the need for a fair and transparent inquiry.
In addition to Mukesh M, the Kerala Police have filed an FIR against actor Jayasurya based on Muneer’s complaint, citing Section 354 of the IPC, which addresses intent to outrage modesty. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has already recorded Muneer’s statement.
The allegations against Mukesh M and Jayasurya come as a redacted version of the Justice Hema committee report exposes widespread harassment and exploitation in the Malayalam film industry. The report points to a power nexus among male figures in the industry and their control over operations and opportunities.
Following these revelations, Director Ranjith and actor Siddique have resigned from their positions in the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), which has been temporarily dissolved. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has announced the formation of a SIT to ensure a thorough investigation, responding to the growing public and media scrutiny.