Mumbai, March 16: Actress and political activist Gautami has sharply criticized the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government in Tamil Nadu, claiming that under Chief Minister MK Stalin’s leadership, women in the state do not feel safe.
She made these remarks while addressing a Women’s Day event organized by the All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK) in Coimbatore.
During her speech, Gautami highlighted that there was a distinct approach towards women’s welfare during the tenure of the late Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa. She noted that Jayalalithaa remained dedicated to women’s welfare and empowerment until the end of her life, implementing numerous schemes aimed at improving their social and economic status. In contrast, Gautami alleged that the current government views women primarily as a “vote bank.”
Gautami asserted that the present administration has failed to ensure the safety and dignity of women across the state. She criticized the policies and governance style adopted under Stalin, stating they lack the sensitivity and commitment that women expect from the government.
Referring to the AIADMK leadership, she praised party secretary and former Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, claiming he fought for nearly 28 months to restore and protect women’s rights in Tamil Nadu.
She further mentioned that many welfare measures initiated by the AIADMK government have been weakened or delayed under the current administration. Gautami cited the laptop distribution scheme for school students, initiated during Jayalalithaa’s tenure, and accused the Stalin government of only reviving this program at the end of its term, suggesting that the decision was driven by electoral motives rather than genuine concern for students’ welfare.
After the event, Gautami criticized DMK MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi’s response to a recent rape and murder case in Vilathikulam. She described Kanimozhi’s statement as insensitive and lacking empathy for the victim and her family.
Gautami questioned why political leaders have not visited the affected area to provide support or comfort to the victim’s family. She also pointed out the disparity in urgency shown by politicians in responding to other incidents compared to the Vilathikulam case.
Furthermore, Gautami raised concerns about the rising drug menace in Tamil Nadu, accusing the administration of failing to address this threat, which could harm current and future generations.
She predicted that the electoral battle would primarily be between the DMK and AIADMK, with other political parties playing only a minor role in the upcoming elections.
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