AMMA acts on harassment complaint: Employee gets job back, Treasurer Unni Sivapal placed on leave

TRIGGER WARNING: This article contains sensitive content related to harassment. Reader discretion is advised.Association of Malayalam Movie Artists has taken action following a workplace harassment complaint filed by office employee Athulya against treasurer Unni Sivapal. Reportedly, AMMA president Shweta Menon said the decision to terminate Athulya’s employment has been withdrawn. She also confirmed that the organization’s executive committee has decided to place Unni Sivapal on leave while the matter is being addressed.As reported by Mathrubhumi News, Athulya, who worked at the front office, approached the Kochi City Police alleging that Unni Sivapal subjected her to mental harassment.She further claimed that she was dismissed from her job after filing the complaint against him. In addition to the police complaint, she has also approached the Labour Office seeking action.According to Athulya, the alleged harassment continued over an extended period and affected her both during and after office hours.Speaking to the media, Athulya alleged that Unni Sivapal treated employees with what she described as a “master-servant mentality.”“Kukku Parameswaran conducted my interview. From the very next day after I joined, the treasurer began speaking to me as though he did not like me. Later, he would pick arguments every day for one reason or another. When I became upset, he would portray me as someone with mental health issues. He blamed me for his own mistakes and presented them that way in meetings. He made me work beyond normal office hours. Even after I returned home, he would continue sending WhatsApp messages and calling me. I have proof of messages sent at midnight,” Athulya said.Athulya also alleged that she informed AMMA general secretary Kukku Parameswaran about her difficulties but was advised to cooperate with the treasurer.She claimed that the general secretary told her that if she chose to file a complaint, she should not continue working there. According to Athulya, her dismissal was a decision taken in support of the treasurer.However, no action has been taken against Kukku Parameswaran. Shweta Menon said the executive committee discussed only the issue involving Unni Sivapal and Athulya.When media asked why action was not taken earlier despite repeated complaints, Shweta Menon reportedly said such matters are handled by the executive committee.She explained that the delay occurred because the committee meeting itself was postponed.In a separate development, Shweta Menon confirmed that the resignation of AMMA joint secretary Ansiba Hassan has been accepted. The actress submitted her resignation on February 21.According to Shweta Menon, the 'Drishyam 3' actress stepped down for personal reasons.