Ban lifted on Sri Reddy; TFCC forms commission to tackle sexual harassment

In a sudden turn of events today, the Movie Artists Association (MAA) decided to revoke its ban on actor Sri Reddy. Addressing a press conference, president of MAA, Sivaji Raja stated that there was nothing personal against the actor in the association’s earlier decision to not offer her a membership. “We have discussed the issue with those in the industry and have arrived at the decision to lift the ban on her. We request her to continue her good work in the industry," said Sivaji Raja. He also added that encouraging local talent has always been the association’s priority.

With a press release on Wednesday, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) stated that they have taken serious note of the absence of a committee to address sexual harassment complaints from women in the Telugu film industry. It also observed that the contents of the allegation, if true, are tantamount to inaction on the part of the State government.

Responding to the sexual harassment and exploitation allegations in the industry, P Kiran, president of Telugu Film Chamber of Commerce said, "Following Vishakha guidelines, TFCC, as the umbrella body, has now established CASH (Committee Against Sexual Harassment). This committee comprising members from the society and the industry is responsible for the tracking of all grievances raised by members of the film industry. Besides trying to provide a comfortable working environment for women, this decision has also been taken to ensure safety, transparency, expertise and accountability in dealing with such issues.”