Mohanlal steps down as AMMA president, executive committee resigns as Hema report rocks industry

Amid the raging controversy in Malayalam cinema over the findings of the Hema Committee report, and in the wake of various explosive sexual allegations cropping up against many of its members, all office-bearers of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA), including its president and top actor Mohanlal, resigned from their positions on Tuesday (August 27).

In a statement, the Association said the current administrative panel resigned as such, taking "moral responsibility" for the allegations. The panel members resigned after an emergency online meet of the actors body decided that the committee should be disbanded since allegations of sexual exploitation have been raised against its members, including the office-bearers.

The executive committee had been elected in June 2024 and they had a tenure upto 2027.

The new administrative panel would be elected within two months after convening a general body meeting, it said.

The Association also thanked everyone for criticising and correcting them, the statement added. The disbanding of the 500-member AMMA has plunged the organisation into a crisis.

Earlier, after sexual abuse allegations surfaced, its general secretary Siddhique also tendered his resignation.      

"In light of the Hema Committee report addressing sexual harassment allegations against certain AMMA office-bearers, the current governing body of AMMA is resigning to uphold its moral responsibility. A general meeting will be convened within two months to elect a new governing body. Meanwhile, the existing committee will temporarily manage operations to ensure the timely distribution of monthly financial aid and medical assistance to members. We are optimistic that the new leadership will revitalize and strengthen AMMA. We appreciate the feedback and criticisms received during this challenging time," read the media message from AMMA.

(With inputs from agencies)