MeToo: Jayasurya calls sexual harassment allegations 'false,' threatens legal action
Malayalam actor Jayasurya, who has been accused of sexual harassment by two women, has finally broken his silence on the matter. In a statement posted on social media, Jayasurya denied the allegations and said he will fight them legally. The actor also took a dig at those who "contributed to making this birthday the most painful one." Here are more details.
'False allegations easy to make for anyone who lacks conscience'
In his post, Jayasurya said, "I have decided to move forward with this legally. My legal team will be looking after the rest of the proceedings regarding this case. False allegations are easy to make for anyone who lacks conscience." He added, "I only hope one realizes that facing a false accusation of harassment is just as painful as the harassment itself." He added that the allegations have "shattered" him.
'Let those who have not sinned throw stones'
Jayasurya concluded the post by saying, "I will be back as soon as I finish my work here [in the US]. All the legal proceedings to prove my innocence will continue. I have complete faith in our judicial system." "Thank you to those who contributed to making this birthday the most painful one. Let those who have not sinned throw stones, but only at those who have sinned."
Jayasurya charged with sexual, verbal assault
Jayasurya has been charged under Section 354 (assault or criminal force on woman with intent to outrage her modesty) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). The actor has also been accused of sexual and verbal assault. Section 354 C of the IPC, which deals with voyeurism, has also been invoked against him. The first FIR was filed a few days ago by actor Minu Muneer, while the second one, also by another actor, was filed on Friday.
Sexual abuse in Malayalam cinema
Several female actors in the Malayalam film industry are gradually opening up about their experiences after the Hema committee report revealed widespread sexual abuse in Malayalam cinema. The Kerala police registered a second sexual assault case against Jayasurya after an actor accused him of molestation inside a film set near Kerala's Thodupuzha during 2012-2013. Professionally, he is known for films such as Pretham and Anchu Sundharikal.
