The Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA) has been plunged into another crisis as a former employee has raised allegations of workplace harassment, forcing the organization to convene an emergency executive meeting in Kochi on Tuesday.
New Allegations Surface
Former front office staff member, identified as Appu, lodged a complaint with the Ernakulam North police, just a day after Athulya, another former staff member, raised similar workplace harassment charges. Appu, who preceded Athulya in the front office, claimed he was dismissed without any explanation and has yet to receive his salary. He alleged that he was forced to perform duties outside his job description, including cleaning tasks.
Charges Against Office Bearers
Both complainants have leveled charges against AMMA treasurer Unni Shivapal and general secretary Cuckoo Parameswaran. Appu alleged that when he took up the harassment complaint to the general secretary, Parameswaran told him that his survival in the office depended entirely on 'gaining the confidence' of Shivapal.
Emergency Meeting and Additional Complaints
The executive session lasted several hours and reportedly addressed not only the office staff grievances but also a fresh complaint from a security staff member alleging similar workplace mistreatment. The meeting aimed to discuss the allegations and decide on the next course of action.
Denial of Allegations
Meanwhile, Parameswaran dismissed the allegations as 'false and motivated,' stating that the complainants were simply disgruntled employees who failed their probation periods. He maintained that the organization follows proper procedures and that the claims are baseless.
Police Investigation Underway
While police are yet to file a formal First Information Report (FIR), they are currently recording detailed statements from the complainants and other relevant individuals to verify the evidence. The investigation is in its early stages.
Earlier Allegations by Athulya
Earlier, Athulya alleged that she faced severe mental harassment and was ousted after reporting internal grievances to president Shwetha Menon. She described a grim environment where she was forced to work on holidays and subjected to 'character assassination' through baseless accusations of financial misappropriation. Her complaint has added to the mounting pressure on the organization.
The crisis has raised questions about the internal management and workplace culture within AMMA, one of the most prominent film bodies in the Malayalam film industry. Further developments are awaited as the police investigation progresses.
