Kerala High Court advises to avoid derogatory portrayal of women through films

Kerala High Court advises film artists

Thiruvananthpuram, Kerala – The Kerala High Court recently advised actors and celebrities not to play roles in films depicting women in derogatory manner. Justice Hema submitted a report to the government on sexual assaults on women in the Malayalam film industry. This advice was given by a special bench headed by the Chief Justice of India. The special bench constituted for hearing of the cases related to this of justice A.K. Jaishankar Nambiyar and justice C. S. Sudha gave this advice. Since a celebrity is capable of influencing people, he should refrain from playing roles that insult women. It is their fundamental duty and responsibility to do so, the bench said.

The Court further observed –

1. It is the fundamental duty of every citizen not to treat any woman with disrespect; but it’s often not addressed. This is because a popular person or actor is exempt from legal action “under the protective umbrella of artistic freedom”.

2. The celebrity should note that as his popularity increases, so does his responsibility towards society. Therefore, it is imperative for him to refrain from participating in activities prohibited by the State Constitution. It is the responsibility of the individual to bring about social reforms.

3. Not everything needs to be done by the book of law. It must be respected in your conscience.

4. In view of the complaints revealed by the Hema Committee report, the bench will order the Special Investigation Team to take action as per law.