In a swift disciplinary rap to the storm raised by the inappropriate sexist remarks made by actor and fellow partyman Radha Ravi at the trailer launch of Nayantara's latest film, the DMK has suspended him from the primary membership of the party.
In a swift disciplinary rap to the storm raised by the inappropriate sexist remarks made by actor and fellow partyman Radha Ravi at the trailer launch of Nayantara's latest film, the DMK has suspended him from the primary membership of the party.
DMK General Secretary, K Anbazhagan announced in a statement release, “Actor Radha Ravi is being temporarily suspended from the primary membership of the party and all party posts for breaching party discipline and acting in a manner that brings disrepute to the party."
At the trailer launch of Nayantara's latest film ‘Kolaiyuthir Kaalam’ on Saturday, Radha Ravi made sexually-charged remarks saying, “Nayanthara acts as a ghost, and then she goes on to act as Sita, as well. She acts as Sita! Earlier, to play the role of a goddess, they would look for someone like KR Vijaya. Now, anyone can be cast to play a goddess.
They can cast someone who you want to pray to when you look at them, they can also cast someone you want to call towards you when you see them,” he hinted disparagingly.
The speech went viral on Sunday drawing flak from public and sharp criticism on social media with actors Taapsee Pannu and director Vignesh Shivan hitting out at Radha Ravi. Nayantara's partner and director Vignesh Shivan tweeted, tagging DMK President MK Stalin and Rajya Sabha MP Kanimozhi Karunanidhi, saying “Both respected leaders have voiced vociferously against the Pollachi sexual harassment case.
Please, why don’t you take stringent action against the male chauvinist, crass sexist and bully Mr. Radha Ravi? Kindly acknowledge and take action.”
In response, DMK Chief M K Stalin had said that Radha Ravi’s comment was unacceptable and also assured that action would be taken against him. "Radha Ravi's comments are unacceptable in DMK which puts women's rights in the forefront. Party cadres should express without indignity and action will be taken on those who violate," tweeted M K Stalin.
Radha Ravi also went on to make vile remarks about the Pollachi sexual abuse and extortion racket that had shocked Tamil Nadu, in recent weeks. “What is the difference between a big film and a small film? If you rape just one girl at once, it is a small film. If you rape 40 people at once, like in Pollachi, it is a big film,” he said.
66-year-old Radha Ravi is the son of renowned yesteryear actor and politician MR Radha and has been part of both major Dravidian parties in the State. He was also named for sexual misconduct in the #MeToo movement.