In a significant move, over a hundred female film personalities from Bengal have demanded the implementation of statutory provisions to ensure the safety and well-being of actors while filming intimate scenes. The call includes the mandatory hiring of professional intimacy directors and choreographers and the establishment of a 24-hour helpline for survivors of sexual harassment.
The Bengal Film Industry’s demand was formalized through a letter addressed to the Tele Academy’s chairman by the Eastern India Motion Pictures Association (EIMPA) presidents, the West Bengal Motion Picture Artists Forum, and the Federation of Cine Workers and Technicians of Eastern India. The letter inquired whether any statutory framework had been established for workers in the TV, web series, and film industries of West Bengal by the Prevention of Sexual Harassment (POSH) Act.
The letter refers to the Hema Committee report from the Malayalam film industry, which highlighted widespread sexual abuse within the entertainment sector. It stated, “Hema panel’s findings indicate the extent and depth of sexual abuse in the entertainment industry in India. We must say, ours is no exception.”
The Need for Professional Intimacy Directors
The demand for intimacy among directors and choreographers is rooted in ensuring a safe environment for actors when performing scenes that require physical closeness. An intimacy director is trained to choreograph such scenes in a way that respects the boundaries and comfort levels of the actors involved, while also ensuring the authenticity of the performance. By making this a statutory requirement, the film industry in Bengal would be taking a significant step toward prioritizing the safety and consent of its artists.
Importance of a 24×7 Helpline
In addition to the call for professional intimacy directors, the female film personalities also emphasized the need for a 24×7 helpline dedicated to survivors of sexual harassment. This helpline would provide immediate support and guidance to individuals who have experienced harassment or abuse, ensuring they have access to the necessary resources and assistance at all times.
A Step Towards Change
The initiative by these female film personalities underscores the urgent need for systemic changes in the entertainment industry to protect its workers from sexual harassment and abuse. The reference to the Hema Committee report reminds us of the pervasive nature of such issues across the Indian entertainment industry and the necessity for concrete actions and policies to safeguard the well-being of all workers.
By advocating for these changes, the film personalities of the Bengal film industry are setting a precedent for other regions and industries to follow. Implementing such measures would not only foster a safer work environment but also promote a culture of respect, consent, and support within the entertainment industry.
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