Kamal Haasan says that the apathy shown towards women’s issues in the country is shameful. In an interview to Mid-day, the actor confessed that he did not know why actors were not raising their voices for gender equality. The actor was asked to comment on the re-instatement of rape accused Dileep by the Association of Malayalam Movie Artistes (AMMA). The move sparked widespread criticism, and ultimately led to four women actors resigning from the organisation.
“I don’t know what stops actors from taking part in gender equality issue. I am sure every man is concerned, but, at the same time, he is old-fashioned. He needs to wake up and understand that our country was headed by a woman prime minister nearly 40 years ago. She committed some mistakes for which we criticised her. But, we still brought her back. So, as a society, we aren’t going to spare anyone [in the wrong] nor are we going to lead an unnecessary witch hunt,” the actor was quoted as saying.
Haasan says that his opinions might well cost him a few friends in the industry. “But, that doesn’t concern me,” he added.
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The actor, who maintains a friendly relationship with AMMA President Mohanlal, says that he doesn’t believe in pandering to friends. “Mohanlal is a dear friend of mine, we are almost neighbours. There is a possibility that he won’t agree with my views, but that doesn’t imply that I need to say good things about him. Tomorrow, if he doesn’t align with my political views, he will speak up and I will not hold it against him.”
Earlier this month, Kamal said that AMMA must hold a dialogue with those who have criticised its move. “AMMA must have a dialogue between the people or groups who are saying that this shouldn’t be done. That’s my take on this issue. And ultimately, its a congregation of artistes. If everybody does not cooperate, how will it ever function?”