Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala police have filed a second FIR against actor Jayasurya in response to a complaint from an actress alleging mistreatment.

The new FIR includes charges under sections 354, 354A(A1)(I), and 354D of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), following the actress’s statement. The case, initially registered in Thiruvananthapuram, will be transferred to the Thodupuzha Police Station for further investigation.

This development comes after the release of the Hema Committee report, which prompted several women from the Malayalam film industry to come forward with allegations of sexual harassment.

Actress Sonia Malhar has shared troubling experiences from her early career in the industry. She detailed an incident from a 2013 film shoot in Thodupuzha, where she felt disrespected and mistreated. Malhar reported being held unexpectedly by someone at the location, an incident that left her frightened and uncomfortable. She also mentioned issues with delayed payments and being replaced in roles after the news spread.

Malhar’s decision to speak out was influenced by learning about similar experiences from actresses from other states. She expressed disappointment over the lack of respect and accountability in the industry.

In addition to Jayasurya, actor Mukesh M, who is also a CPI (M) MLA from Kollam, has faced a complaint from actress Minu Muneer. The police have filed an FIR against Mukesh M based on her allegations.

Muneer has accused several actors, including Mukesh M, Jayasurya, Maniyanpilla Raju, and Idavela Babu, of both verbal and physical abuse during film projects. She described specific incidents, including an alleged unwanted hug and kiss from Jayasurya and inappropriate advances from other actors.

These allegations come after resignations from director Ranjith and actor Siddique from the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) amid separate accusations. Muneer initially shared her allegations on social media, recounting abuse dating back to 2013, which eventually led her to leave the Malayalam film industry and move to Chennai.

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