BJP Leader Khushbu Sundar Sounds Alarm on Women's Safety in Tamil Nadu
State BJP vice-president and actor Khushbu Sundar, while campaigning in Coimbatore on Friday, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating state of women's safety in Tamil Nadu. She highlighted that the late former chief minister J Jayalalithaa had established a high standard for female courage, a benchmark she believes is now under threat.
Campaign Remarks on Safety and Culture
During her campaign stops at Venkittapuram and Kovilmedu in the Coimbatore North constituency, Khushbu Sundar voiced serious apprehensions. "Today, women are living in fear and hesitate to step outside their homes. Many feel compelled to carry pepper spray for personal protection, which is a distressing reality," she stated. She further criticized what she described as a shift in the state's cultural landscape, warning that it is evolving into a "drug culture."
Khushbu pointed to the alarming trend of school and college students succumbing to substance abuse, questioning the future direction of Tamil Nadu. "It is deeply troubling to witness young students falling prey to drugs. One must ask where our state is headed if such issues persist unchecked," she added.
Criticism of DMK and Defense of Women's Dignity
The BJP leader also took aim at DMK ministers, accusing them of making derogatory remarks towards women. She specifically condemned comments that mocked women utilizing free bus travel schemes and suggestions that financial entitlements like the Rs1,000 assistance were spent on cosmetics. "Such statements are an insult to women's dignity and undermine their struggles. It is essential that women's voices are heard and respected in society," Khushbu emphasized.
Praise for Jayalalithaa and Support for Vanathi Srinivasan
Reflecting on leadership, Khushbu Sundar praised J Jayalalithaa for setting a powerful example of courage and resilience. "Jayalalithaa demonstrated how brave a woman can be, inspiring countless others. Following her tenure, Tamil Nadu experienced a period of safety under former chief minister Edappadi K Palaniswami," she noted.
She extended her support to BJP candidate Vanathi Srinivasan, describing her as embodying that same bold and courageous spirit. "Vanathi Srinivasan represents the strong voice that Tamil Nadu needs today. She stands for the values of safety and empowerment that we must uphold," Khushbu asserted.
Empowerment Through Government Initiatives
Khushbu also highlighted the efforts of the central government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in promoting women's empowerment. She mentioned initiatives like the 33% reservation for women, which aim to enable females to become self-reliant. "The government is actively working to empower women, helping them stand on their own feet and contribute meaningfully to society. This is a crucial step towards ensuring a safer and more equitable future," she concluded.
