Kerala HC dismissed the plea against disclosure of the Hema committee report
Last Updated on August 14, 2024 by NewsDesk SLC
Justice VG Arun dismissed the plea filed by Malayalam film producer Sajimon Parayil, saying the publication of the report could adversely affect the film industry. The Justice K Hema Committee, set up in 2017 and the report was submitted in 2019. Lesly John, a journalist, filed a Right to Information in 2020. The state information ordered the disclosure in 2024.
disclosure of the report was passed after an appeal was directed before the SIC. Film producers argued that the order violated confidentiality and did not comply with the Right to Information act. The public interest in the amendment of personal details to protect privacy was affirmed by the SIC and state. The report release was supported by both the Women’s Commission and Women in Cinema.
The importance of transparency and accountability was highlighted in Parayil’s petition, which questioned the SIC order upheld by the court. There was no conflict between privacy rights and the public interest. Public awareness is needed to combat harassment and discrimination in the film industry.
Hence,The Kerala court therefore dismissed a petition challenging the publication of the Justice K Hema committee report on the working conditions of women in the film industry. It extended the deadline for publication of the report by one week from the date of the judgment to ensure compliance with the SIC order.
Case Law: Sajimon Parayil V State of Kerala
Written By: Kirti Sharma
