In the wake of the shocking revelations of sexual exploitation within the Malayalam film industry, the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA) faces unprecedented challenges amid the fallout from the K. Hema Committee report. Following the Kerala High Court’s approval to make the redacted report public, AMMA’s executive committee has been dissolved, marking a significant moment in the association’s nearly three-decade history.
The resolve to disband the executive committee was catalyzed by the resignation of general secretary Siddique on August 25, after a female actor accused him of sexual assault. This prompted authorities to investigate other prominent figures, including actor Mukesh, a sitting MLA from the Communist Party of India (Marxist), as well as former general secretaries Siddique and Edavela Babu, and actors Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Sudheesh.
Established in 1994, AMMA aimed to protect the rights and interests of its members, with its inaugural meeting drawing around 80 actors in Thiruvananthapuram. M. G. Soman and T. P. Madhavan held the first leadership roles, with the late Innocent serving as president for nearly 18 years. Today, the association comprises 506 members, including 250 women, all of whom participate in electing a three-year tenure executive committee.
The association’s charter emphasizes enhancing relationships among members, improving their economic status, and providing support during difficult times. Membership includes a monthly stipend for those facing health challenges along with accident and health insurance. Historically, AMMA has relied on the popularity of its members to generate funds through various stage performances. However, tensions have emerged over the years, particularly following decisions that received backlash from industry stakeholders.
Notably, the expulsion of acclaimed actor Thilakan in 2010, after his criticism of AMMA’s leadership, highlighted internal conflicts and accusations of favoritism within the association. The Hema Committee report echoed these sentiments, referring to a systemic “power group” within the industry that stifles dissent.
Legal battles have also plagued the association, including a 2017 ruling by the Competition Commission of India, which fined AMMA for anti-competitive practices in its efforts to control the industry. Such incidents have compoundingly strained AMMA’s public standing.
Main Objectives
The association’s primary goals focus on fostering camaraderie among members and providing financial support, including a monthly stipend for members facing health issues. While the leadership initially maintained a low profile, controversies surrounding its decisions and responses to various crises have polarized opinions and led to mass resignations among the Women in Cinema Collective in protest over the handling of allegations against actor Dileep.
The response to the recent allegations has reaffirmed the need for a safer, more equitable working environment in the film industry. As AMMA grapples with its evolving role amidst these revelations, the future of the association hangs in the balance, calling for an urgent reassessment of its policies and practices.
