Controversy Erupts Over DMK MP's Remarks on Women from North India

Political Controversy Arises from DMK MP's Comments

Dayanidhi Maran, a four-time DMK MP representing the Chennai Central constituency, has sparked a political uproar with his recent comments comparing women from North India and Tamil Nadu during an event.

This statement was made while addressing students at the Quaid-e-Millet Government College for Women in Chennai, where a laptop distribution program was taking place. Maran remarked that girls in Tamil Nadu are encouraged to pursue education and career advancement, whereas in North India, they are expected to stay at home, manage the kitchen, and bear children. He praised Tamil Nadu as a 'Dravidian state' that emphasizes education and women's empowerment through DMK policies.

The BJP has strongly condemned Maran's remarks. Tamil Nadu's former governor and BJP leader, Tamilisai Soundararajan, stated that 'separatist mentality is ingrained in the DNA of the DMK.' BJP spokesperson Narayanan Tirupati labeled the comments as an insult to North Indians and criticized Maran for lacking 'common sense,' demanding an apology. Other BJP leaders have characterized the remarks as divisive politics.

In contrast, senior DMK leader TKS Elangovan defended Maran's comments, asserting that the party has consistently worked for women's progress. He claimed that no one in North India fights for women's rights, while Tamil Nadu focuses on education, employment, and empowerment. Elangovan also mentioned the need for women's empowerment in Congress-ruled states.