'Will You Get Me Married To Nayanthara?' AIADMK MP Delivers Shocking Statement At Rally For Women's Safety

Chennai: A controversial statement made by C.V. Shanmugam—a Rajya Sabha MP for the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) and a former Law Minister—regarding an actress has sparked a controversy within Tamil Nadu. The party had organized a protest to highlight the rising crimes against women and children in the state. The MP was leading the protest in his home district.

What was the controversial statement?

During the event, while criticizing the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) initiative titled ‘Tell Us Your Dream,’ he abruptly remarked, "I want Nayanthara; will the Chief Minister fulfill this wish of mine?" He did not stop there; the MP went on to ask, "Will the Chief Minister fulfill someone's dream of marrying Nayanthara?"

What was the reaction?

Shanmugam's comments ignited outrage among leaders of various political parties, who demanded an unconditional public apology from him. Leaders from various political factions—including K. Selvaperunthagai, President of the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC)—accused Shanmugam of disparaging actresses and demanded an unconditional apology. They also announced that members of the TNCC Women's Wing would organize statewide protests, demonstrating with black flags until Mr. Shanmugam tendered his apology.

Congress MP Ms. Jothimani condemned the MP's remarks and demanded that a criminal case be registered against him. Leaders of various political parties also urged the AIADMK leadership to take strict disciplinary action against him and expel him from the party. Members of the Tamil Nadu Nadigar Sangam (Actors' Association) and film artists have also strongly condemned Mr. Shanmugam's comments.

Is this the First Controversial Remark?

The AIADMK has not yet issued an official response regarding Shanmugam's statement. However, according to NDTV, a party spokesperson—speaking on the condition of anonymity—stated that the organization distances itself from the remark. He stated that it is not the role of a spokesperson to defend such remarks. Incidentally, this is not the first time Shanmugam has sparked controversy over comments concerning women. Last year, he incited public outrage by alleging that the Chief Minister might even announce "a free wife" as part of his election promises.