Why Did TN Minister Criticize AIADMK's Shanmugam Over His 'Degrading' Comparison of Women?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a fierce response to AIADMK's C. Ve. Shanmugam's derogatory remarks equating women to welfare freebies, Tamil Nadu's Minister P. Geetha Jeevan has passionately defended women's dignity, calling for respect and empowerment. This controversy highlights ongoing gender issues and political dynamics in Tamil Nadu as the state prepares for the upcoming elections.
Key Takeaways
- Shanmugam's remarks reveal a mindset that disrespects women.
- Geetha Jeevan emphasizes the importance of women's empowerment.
- The DMK government is actively working on initiatives to elevate women’s status.
- Misogynistic comments from politicians are being called out.
- Voter sentiment regarding women's issues will be crucial in upcoming elections.
Chennai, Oct 14 (NationPress) Tamil Nadu's Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Minister P. Geetha Jeevan expressed her outrage on Tuesday against AIADMK Organising Secretary and Rajya Sabha MP C. Ve. Shanmugam for his derogatory statement likening women to free welfare programs, labeling it as "profoundly insulting and indicative of a backward mentality".
While speaking at an AIADMK booth committee training event, Shanmugam allegedly stated, "In the run-up to elections, numerous gifts will be unveiled -- including mixies, grinders, goats, cows, and even wives will be distributed at no charge."
Geetha Jeevan condemned this comment, asserting that it reveals the AIADMK's disdain for women.
"This declaration lays bare Shanmugam's twisted mindset. He is wholly unqualified to make such remarks as a human being. The late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa would have never accepted such vulgarity," she conveyed in her statement.
The Minister further emphasized that the DMK administration, led by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, has been rolling out numerous initiatives aimed at the empowerment and social upliftment of women.
"The AIADMK and its affiliates are not merely opposing the DMK; they are opposing women themselves," she remarked.
Geetha Jeevan recalled that AIADMK leader and former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami previously ridiculed the women's free bus travel initiative, referring to them as "lipstick buses," indicating that Shanmugam's remarks fall within the same misogynistic context.
"This is the antiquated AIADMK mindset that belittles women's dignity," she said.
She also pointed out that similar disparaging comments have been made previously by BJP leader Khushbu Sundar, PMK's Sowmiya Anbumani, and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, all of whom are part of the AIADMK-BJP coalition and have targeted women beneficiaries of welfare programs.
Highlighting the DMK government's accomplishments, the Minister mentioned the Kalaignar Mahalir Urimai Thittam, which she claimed has greatly enhanced women's economic and social standing.
"Thanks to these progressive initiatives, Tamil Nadu now leads the nation in women's involvement in industries. Other states like Madhya Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, West Bengal, and Puducherry have adopted our model," she noted.
In closing her statement, Geetha Jeevan asserted, "Women across Tamil Nadu will not forget these ongoing insults. They will respond appropriately to the AIADMK and its allies in the 2026 state Assembly elections.
Point of View
This incident underscores the importance of respectful dialogue surrounding women's issues in politics. The remarks made by leaders must reflect a commitment to empowering women rather than demeaning them. As discussions evolve, it's vital to recognize the responsibility of public figures in shaping societal attitudes.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Shanmugam's controversial remark?
Shanmugam compared women to free welfare schemes, stating that several items, including wives, would be given away for free before elections.
How did Geetha Jeevan respond?
Geetha Jeevan condemned the remark as deeply insulting and indicative of a regressive mindset, highlighting the AIADMK’s ongoing contempt for women.
What initiatives has the DMK government implemented for women?
The DMK government has initiated several programs aimed at women's empowerment, including the Kalaignar Mahalir Urimai Thittam, which enhances their economic and social status.
What does this controversy signify for the upcoming elections?
This incident highlights the ongoing gender issues in Tamil Nadu, suggesting that voters will remember these remarks during the 2026 state Assembly elections.
How has the AIADMK historically treated women's issues?
Geetha Jeevan noted that previous AIADMK leaders have made similar misogynistic comments, indicating a pattern of trivializing women's dignity.
