AIADMK leader stokes row with crass remark on Nayanthara at women safety rally

An AIADMK MP from Tamil Nadu has come under sharp criticism for making a sexist and derogatory remark involving actor Nayanthara while participating in a protest on women’s safety. Intended as a dig at Tamil Nadu Chief Minister MK Stalin, the MP asked whether, if his “dream” was to marry Nayanthara, the government would fulfil it.

His comments were in reference to Stalin’s recent remarks urging people in Tamil Nadu to share their dreams, assuring that the government would strive to fulfil them.

The controversy has been further amplified by the irony that the remarks were made during a party-led protest demanding greater safety and dignity for women in Tamil Nadu.

During his speech, the leader referred to former President APJ Abdul Kalam’s famous call to “dream” and went on to make a crude analogy.

“Abdul Kalam asked us to dream. He (Stalin) even said to share our dreams. If I say I want Nayanthara, will he (Stalin) fulfil my dream? If someone asks him (Stalin) to arrange their marriage with Nayanthara, will he fulfil that dream?” he said.

The remarks drew sharp criticism from across quarters, including political parties.

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