A fresh political row has erupted in Kerala involving the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] after one of its local leaders made remarks widely condemned as deeply misogynistic and derogatory towards women.
The leader, identified as Saidali Majeed, a former local secretary, made the controversial statements during a post-election gathering in the Thenala region of Malappuram district.
Explicit and Offensive Comments
Majeed's speech specifically targeted the practice of fielding women candidates by opposition parties, particularly the Muslim League, in local body elections. His comments quickly drew ire for their vulgarity and explicit references to married women and their private lives.
He stated that the party had not married women "to showcase them before other men" and went on to question the need to field women for electoral gains.
"To gain a vote or to win one ward, they will not be paraded before other men," Majeed reportedly stated in his speech. He continued: "We also have women married, our children are also married, that is to sleep with their husbands."
Widespread Condemnation
The remarks have been met with immediate and fierce criticism from political parties and women's rights groups across the state, who have demanded action against the CPI(M) leader.
The comments are viewed as highly regressive and reflective of a sexist mindset, particularly coming from a leader of the ruling party. Critics argue that such statements are a severe insult to the dignity of women leaders and candidates across the political spectrum.
The incident underscores the continuing challenges of misogyny within the political sphere and places pressure on the CPI(M) leadership to publicly disavow the remarks and take disciplinary action against Saidali Majeed.
