Lagatar24 Desk
Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Vijay, addressing the state Assembly, said political criticism was legitimate but warned that derogatory or defamatory remarks against women would not be tolerated, underscoring that women had played a central role in his political success in Tamil Nadu.
Vijay Says Freedom of Speech Must Be Used Responsibly
Speaking on law and order, Vijay said that while speech is a personal right for everyone, how that freedom of expression is exercised requires careful consideration. He appealed that people should not degrade others, particularly women, for political reasons, noting that Tamil Nadu had recently seen a surge of obscene and malicious remarks, with the public closely watching those who speak about women in defamatory or double-meaning terms. He reminded lawmakers that they too have women as mothers and sisters at home, urging everyone to keep that in mind while speaking.
CM Says Law Will Act Against Obscene Remarks on Women
Vijay, in his first term as Chief Minister, said the people, including the women in his own family, had played a key role in shaping who he is today, both in his earlier career and his current position, and reaffirmed that the law would take its course against anyone making obscene remarks about women.
Warning Follows Row Over Alleged Remarks on Actor Trisha
Vijay’s remarks came days after Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin faced controversy over alleged derogatory remarks directed at actor Trisha. Udhayanidhi had allegedly made a double-meaning comment during a Cauvery protest meeting in August, though the DMK claims the remark was maliciously edited and misrepresented, maintaining that he never mentioned the actor’s name. He was taken into police custody but was later released by the Madras High Court following questioning.
Vijay References Past Incident Involving Jayalalithaa
Vijay also referenced an earlier incident, recalling that former Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa had reportedly been humiliated in the same Assembly by the same opposition in the past, adding that recent instances of double and triple-meaning remarks were being closely observed by the public.
Udhayanidhi Alleges He Was Denied Chance to Respond
Speaking to reporters after the Assembly proceedings, Udhayanidhi alleged that the Chief Minister had made several accusations against the DMK without providing evidence, and claimed the opposition was denied an opportunity to respond. He said the Chief Minister had spoken about the police department for the first 11 minutes, which the opposition heard quietly, but subsequently made what he called baseless allegations without proof, adding that despite requesting the Speaker for an opportunity to respond, none was given.
Udhayanidhi Says Allegations Remain Unproven
Responding to the Chief Minister’s remarks, Udhayanidhi maintained that accusations alone were insufficient without supporting evidence, asserting that any allegation made must be substantiated with proof.
