Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay grew visibly agitated in the state Assembly on Monday while replying to the demand for grants for the police department, departing from his prepared remarks to condemn what he called a "river of abuse" being directed at women in public discourse. His comments came in the middle of a broader political slugfest with the DMK, weeks after a controversy over remarks made about actress Trisha.
Vijay told the House that harsh political criticism was acceptable, but personal and defamatory attacks on women were not, adding that he would not tolerate abusive language against them regardless of who it came from.
"Will not tolerate abusive language against women," says Vijay
Speaking extempore during his reply, the Chief Minister said he wanted to address the tone of certain recent speeches in public life. "Don't make personal attacks on others and women," he said, adding that people across Tamil Nadu were watching how some public figures were using "double-meaning language" against women. He urged everyone to conduct themselves "properly."
Vijay went on to say that women had played a central role in his own political success. "Women are the main reason behind my political victory. I will not tolerate any abusive language against women. There can be harsh political criticism, but there should not be any defamatory remarks against women," he told the Assembly.
