Malayalam actor Dileep, who has been recognised as one of the prime accused in the abduction and sexual assault of a Malayalam actress in February last year, reportedly wrote to the AMMA (Association of Malayalam Movie Actors) that he will not return to the association until all charges against him are cleared. Last weekend, the actor was reinstated by the association, with recently elected AMMA president Mohanlal revoking his suspension.

Amidst all this, protesters gathered outside Mohanlal’s residence, demanding that the Malayalam superstar not side with anyone who has been accused of causing harm to women’s safety or security. It is reported that some protesters even tried to barge in to his house, but were stopped at the right time.

Recently, in protest against Dileep’s reinstatement, three actresses exited AMMA. Geethu Mohandas, Rima Kallingal, and Ramya Nambeesan have quit the association following Dileep’s inclusion. Taking a stand on this, the actresses are hoping that others follow suit and witness how the association’s move is insulting to the survivor of the abduction.

Speaking to JFW, actress Ramya, who has been a member of the association for years, said she was completely shocked by the decision.

“I have been an executive member and this move has terrified and shocked us! It’s completely unfair to the survivor and we wanted to show how this whole thing points to an unhealthy space. There has to be justice for the survivor,” she said, voicing her concerns.

Members of the Women in Cinema Collective (WCC) are also looking to fight from outside so as to bring some much-needed change to the industry.

On Sunday last week, actor Mohanlal took charge as the president of AMMA with actor-politician Mukesh elected as the vice-president of the association, and Idavela Babu replaced Mammootty as general secretary. Actors Siddique and Jagadish have been elected as joint secretary and treasurer respectively.