Riyaz Khan accused of sexual misconduct as Hema report ignites #MeToo wave in Malayalam cinema

Popular actor Riyaz Khan is under scrutiny as the #MeToo movement resurges in the Malayalam film industry. Female members of the industry who have allegedly faced sexual harassment are once again publicly naming their tormentors following the damaging findings of the Hema Committee report.

Actress Revathy Sampath has alleged that Riyaz Khan made inappropriate advances toward her and phoned her late at night with an indecent proposal. While speaking to the local news channel 24News, Revathy revealed that some time ago, she received a late-night call from Riyaz. She claimed that she later discovered a photographer had shared her number with Riyaz without her consent. She alleged that Riyaz asked her if she was interested in a sexual relationship.

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Riyaz Khan has not yet responded to the allegations. He is a popular actor and a familiar face across the South Indian film industry, with many blockbusters to his credit. He is known for his performances in Ghajini, Winner, Baba, and Ponniyin Selvan Parts 1 and 2. He also has a slew of Malayalam movies to his credit, including Pokkiri Raja, Mumbai Police, and Aaraattu among others.

Revathy has also accused seasoned Malayalam actor Siddique of sexual assault. In light of her allegations and the public scrutiny following the Hema Committee report, Siddique was forced to resign from his role as the General Secretary of the Association of Malayalam Movie Artists (AMMA).

While Siddique has denied all allegations against him, he has not directly responded to Revathy's claims.

The Hema Committee report has alleged widespread sexual exploitation and a hostile work environment for women in the Malayalam film industry. Although the report was submitted in 2019, the Kerala government only made it public a few days ago.

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