The order was passed on a petition filed by Malayalam film producer Sajimon Parayil who argued that the disclosure of the report could adversely affect the film industry itself.
“This order, if implemented, would adversely affect the film industry at large, compromising individuals privacy, breaching confidentiality and potentially damaging reputations and livelihoods of persons with the industry including the ones who came forward with their viewpoints and testimonials,” Parayil’s plea stated.
The Kerala government had constituted the Hema committee to study the issues faced by women in the film industry after a a petition filed by ‘Women in Cinema Collective’ in 2017.
The Committee submitted its report to the government in 2019 but the State declined to make the report public despite several requests under the Right to Information Act.
However, on July 5 this year the State Information Commission directed disclosure of the report after redaction of certain portions.
Parayil’s petition before the High Court has alleged that only limited redactions were ordered by the SIC.
It further argued that the order passed by the SIC was against public interest and violative of the right to the privacy of various persons including Parayil.
“The disclosure would breach the confidentiality assured to those who provided testimony, potentially exposing them to retaliation and harassment,” the plea contended.
Source: Barandbench
