Hema Committee Report and the Wave of Metoo: The Digital Battle of Women in Malayalam Cinema

The release of the redacted Justice Hema Committee Report in July 2024 caused a stir in the Malayalam cinema industry due to the involvement of renowned actors. Following a 2017 high profile assault of female actor, women in the industry formed the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) to address gender inequity and hazardous working conditions. At the request of WCC, the Kerala state government set up the Justice Hema Committee to examine women's working conditions, which gave its report in December 2019. This study looks at the frequency and effects of digital harassment and cyberbullying directed at members of the WCC. Due to the WCC's leadership in addressing structural problems like discrimination and sexual harassment in the business, its members have experienced severe criticism. It investigates the prevalent forms of cyberbullying and abuse among WCC members, their impact on mental health and wellness, coping strategies used to address cyberbullying, and the broader movement for gender equity in the film industry. The research will use qualitative interviews, content analysis, and case studies to gather details of cyberbullying and online abuse among WCC members, identify patterns, and understand the impact on individuals and the movement. It is expected that the research will show a significant incidence of cyberbullying and digital harassment aimed at WCC members, encompassing threats, online intimidation, and doxxing. Cyberbullying and cyber harassment can cause WCC members anxiety, depression, and dread. Peer support, internet safety tools, and legal action are WCC coping techniques. The study will highlight the challenges faced by women in the film business who report harassment and discrimination and the need for better safety and support for gender equality advocates. Cyberbullying and digital harassment's effects on social justice movements and the experiences of activist women in the film industry will be better understood.