Kerala Film Conclave Demands Gender Justice, Labour Rights

The Kerala Film Policy Conclave highlighted urgent calls for stronger gender justice and labor protections within the Malayalam film industry, emphasizing workplace safety for women and equitable labor conditions. Delegates advocated for legally binding work-hour norms, the establishment of internal complaints committees on film sets, and protections such as maternity benefits and safe accommodations for women. Concerns over wage disparities were raised, with up to 80% of production budgets reportedly allocated to lead actors, leaving many supporting artists and technicians underpaid and without job security. The Film Employees Federation of Kerala acknowledged the need for reforms but contested claims of contract violations, though stakeholders stressed the need for better enforcement. Actress Tamannaah Bhatia’s experience of being dismissed after refusing an uncomfortable scene exemplifies the broader issue of patriarchy in the film industry, where women’s consent is often disregarded and their agency undermined. These discussions underscore ongoing challenges around gender equality, fair labor practices, and the need for structural reforms in Indian cinema.