The Ernakulam Principal Sessions Court in Kerala has granted anticipatory bail to actor and MLA M. Mukesh and actor Edavela Babu, who face sexual assault allegations made by a former actress. The allegations arose following the release of the Justice Hema Committee report, which highlighted severe issues within the Malayalam film industry, including sexual abuse and exploitation. Mukesh claims the accusations are part of a blackmail scheme against him, while Babu similarly contends that the allegations are unfounded. The court noted there was no immediate evidence suggesting that Mukesh was a flight risk. A total of 11 individuals from the film industry have been implicated, with FIRs registered against several actors and directors. The Kerala High Court has also initiated a special bench to examine cases related to the Hema Committee report, indicating a broader reckoning within the industry.