While Opposition Leader Udhayanidhi was speaking in Thanjavur, criticizing the Tamil Nadu government over the Mekedatu dam issue, a controversy has arisen over remarks said to have demeaned women. In this regard, in a statement issued by TVK MLA Kanimozhi Santhosh from the Coimbatore Kavundampalayam constituency, “Those holding high responsibilities in public life should express political differences in a civilized and responsible manner. In particular, speaking about women, or in a way that affects women’s dignity and respect, is unacceptable under any circumstances.
Those in public life are responsible for every word they speak. Politics is a forum for discussing people’s problems, policies, and the functioning of governance. It is not a place to demean women’s dignity. As a woman and as a people’s representative, I strongly condemn the controversial speech made by the DMK’s opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin. This cannot be dismissed as merely a political disagreement. At a time when we all must act responsibly regarding the respect and dignity that women should be accorded in society, any speech contrary to that is condemnable.
Political power or office does not give anyone the right to speak irresponsibly. No matter who it comes from, speech that demeans women is something every woman has the right to speak out against, and it is also the responsibility of society. Necessary action should be taken regarding this matter. No one can be allowed to use women’s dignity as a political weapon. Wherever words that insult a woman’s honor come from, women’s voices will rise in opposition. Women’s dignity must be protected. Speech that insults women must be put to an end. This is the voice of civilized Tamil Nadu,” it was stated.