DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran has sparked a political controversy after comparing the status of women in Tamil Nadu to that in northern India, drawing criticism from the BJP and a strong defence from his own party. The remarks highlight ongoing debates over women’s empowerment and regional differences in India.

Remarks at Chennai College Event

Maran made the comments while speaking at Quaid-E-Millath Government College of Women in Chennai on Tuesday. The event was part of the Ulagam Ungal Kaiyil scheme, where Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin distributed laptops to students.

Praising Tamil Nadu’s focus on educating girls and empowering women, Maran encouraged students to take the laptops with confidence and pride, crediting the Dravidian model and the ideals of Periyar and Chief Minister MK Stalin, whom he called “the best Chief Minister in the country.”

He contrasted this with northern India, stating:
“What do they say in the North? Girls, do not go to work; be at home, be in the kitchen, birth children, that is what you are supposed to do.”

BJP Criticism

The remarks were immediately condemned by the BJP.

• Narayanan Thiruppathy, Tamil Nadu BJP spokesperson, accused Maran of abusing North Indian people and demanded an apology.

• BJP chief Anila Singh described the comments as “unfortunate,” citing prominent women leaders such as Sonia Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, and President Droupadi Murmu, and stressed that India cannot be divided regionally.

DMK’s Defence

Senior DMK leader TKS Elangovan defended Maran, highlighting the party’s role in promoting women’s education, employment, and reservations in Tamil Nadu. He argued that the DMK has historically championed women’s empowerment, in contrast to northern states where similar initiatives have lagged.

The party maintained that Maran’s comments were intended to praise Tamil Nadu’s progressive model, not insult any region.

Wider Political Implications

The controversy underscores the North-South divide in Indian politics and debates over women’s empowerment. Critics argue that Maran’s statements could fuel regional sensitivities, while supporters claim it highlights the success of Tamil Nadu’s Dravidian model in promoting gender equality.

As the debate continues, the remarks have reignited discussions about regional disparities in social development and the political narratives surrounding women’s rights in India.