Tamil Nadu: DMK’s Shivaji Krishnamurthy faces backlash for misogynistic rhetoric against BJP’s female leader

Shivaji Krishnamurthy, a platform speaker for the DMK known for his controversial and anti-feminist rhetoric laced with cuss words, has once again stirred controversy by targeting BJP Thoothukudi Lok Sabha candidate and renowned teleserial producer Radhika Sarathkumar in a derogatory manner during a public meeting. His remarks have sparked outrage among political leaders and the public alike.

Krishnamurthy’s behaviour is not an isolated incident but rather part of a larger pattern within the DMK leadership. The party has a history of making indecent and derogatory remarks against opponents, particularly women, which seems ingrained in its political culture. From its founding figures like EV Ramaswamy Naicker and Anna Durai to its current grassroots cadres, such behaviour has been normalised.

Nanninalam Natarajan, Vetrikondan, Viduthalai Virumbi, K Kalimuthu, and other platform speakers associated with the Dravidian movement have often resorted to using sexually explicit and double entendre-laden language to captivate audiences. This tradition of fiery speeches and personal attacks extends beyond just DMK stalwarts like C N Annadurai and M Karunanidhi to numerous platform speakers.

Krishnamurthy’s remarks follow a pattern of misogynistic rhetoric within the DMK, exemplified by past incidents involving spokesperson Saidai Sadique, who made derogatory comments targeting women leaders of the BJP Tamil Nadu two years ago. Sadique’s comments, which referred to BJP actresses as “prostitutes” and included sexual innuendos about Kushboo, sparked outrage and condemnation from political leaders and the public alike.

In Krishnamurthy’s recent speech at a meeting in Chennai, he targeted Sarath Kumar and his wife Radhika, who is a BJP official and candidate for the Virudhunagar constituency. Using abusive double entendres, Krishnamurthy made offensive remarks about the couple, drawing strong opposition from Radhika and highlighting the toxic nature of political discourse in the state.

A video of Krishnamurthy’s speech, which went viral on social media, showcased his campaign endorsement for DMK MP Candidate G Selvan from Kanchipuram. His speech exemplified the notorious style of DMK’s street campaigns, known for their history of employing abusive, indecent, and offensive language against the opposition.

In his speech, Krishnamurthy made derogatory remarks, comparing Sarath Kumar to a condom and insinuating inappropriate behaviour towards his wife Radhika. The comments not only targeted Sarath Kumar but also included demeaning references to Radhika’s profession and personal life, sparking widespread condemnation.

Critics have denounced Krishnamurthy’s remarks as not merely a slip-up but a deliberate use of offensive language for political gain.

Krishnamurthy’s comments were shared on social media platforms by Khusboo Sundar, a member of the National Commission for Women, who expressed dismay over his repeated insults towards women. Radhika Sarathkumar also condemned Krishnamurthy’s behaviour, calling him a “sinner” and demanding severe punishment for his actions. She tagged DMK leaders, including CM Stalin and Sports Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin, and expressed her disappointment in the party’s failure to address such behaviour.

TN BJP media wing functionary Karthik Gopinath called for legal action against Krishnamurthy, referring to him as a habitual offender who has once again resorted to abusive language against women. Gopinath questioned whether the DMK government would invoke the Goondas Act against Krishnamurthy, highlighting the need for accountability and condemnation of such behaviour.

This is not the first time Krishnamurthy has made derogatory remarks against BJP leaders. In a previous incident, he verbally attacked Sarath Kumar and Radhika Sarathkumar, making indecorous comments about their association with the BJP. His remarks, which included references to Sarath Kumar waking up Radhika Sarathkumar at two o’clock to discuss meeting with Modi, were met with widespread criticism for their offensive and disrespectful nature.

Interestingly, when Radhika was in DMK and producing teleseries for Sun TV, she was pampered and given due respect and dignity. Since she joined the BJP, she has become an enemy of Dravidian stocks.

Last year, Krishnamurthy was suspended and later expelled from the DMK for making controversial remarks against TN Governor RN Ravi and actor Kushboo. He even served 63 days in prison for his actions.

Despite his expulsion, Krishnamurthy sought re-induction into the party after issuing an apology. However, DMK spokesperson TKS Elangovan has expressed firmness in ensuring that Krishnamurthy faces consequences for his actions, stating that he will be removed from the party even if he apologises. He abused other leaders,, including  K. Annamalai, Edappadi Palaniswami.  Last year Khushboo reacted strongly.

The resurgence of Krishnamurthy’s controversial past has sparked debates about the treatment of women in politics and the need for accountability for offensive behaviour. His derogatory comments targeting BJP leaders have drawn strong condemnation, particularly in the context of women’s empowerment and representation in elected bodies.