Sincerely apologize for inappropriate words I used: DMK's Ponmudy after controversy over his remarks on women

ANI April 12, 2025 313 views

DMK leader K Ponmudy found himself in hot water after making controversial remarks about women and Hindu religious sects. The party swiftly responded by removing him from his deputy general secretary position, signaling serious internal disciplinary action. Multiple political opponents, including AIADMK and BJP leaders, strongly criticized Ponmudy's inappropriate comments. In a public statement, Ponmudy expressed sincere regret and apologized for causing hurt and embarrassment through his speech.

"I sincerely apologize for the inappropriate words I used" - K Ponmudy
Chennai, April 12: K Ponmudy, former Deputy General Secretary of DMK, on Saturday apologized for his alleged derogatory and "vulgar" remarks against women and certain sects of Hinduism.

Key Points

1

DMK removes Ponmudy from deputy general secretary role

2

Multiple political parties condemn his controversial remarks

3

Leader expresses deep regret for offensive speech

4

Criticism spans from AIADMK to BJP leaders

Ponmudy said that he "immediately" regretted his "inappropriate" remarks.

"I sincerely apologize for the inappropriate words I used while speaking at an event organized by the Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam. I immediately felt deep regret for the inappropriate remarks I had made. As someone who has been in public life for a long time, I am deeply sorry for this lapse in judgment. I regret that my speech caused hurt to many and created an embarrassing situation for them. I once again offer my heartfelt apologies to everyone who was hurt by my words," Ponmudy said.

Earlier, Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) dismissed Tamil Nadu Forest Minister K Ponmudy from the position of Deputy General Secretary in the party, following his controversial remarks on Hinduism and women.

AIADMK leader Sellur Raju slammed Ponmudy on Friday, accusing him of having a "habit" of making "disrespectful" remarks about women.

"Minister Ponmudi has made it a habit to continually speak disrespectfully about women and marginalized communities," Raju told reporters.

AIADMK National Spokesperson Kovai Sathyan also slammed Ponmudy as a "disgrace" to the public, and a "true representation" of DMK.

Condemning Ponmudy's reported controversial remarks on women and Hinduism, Sathyan said that DMK leaders can go to any extent to mock religious beliefs and practices, particularly with respect to Hindu religious beliefs.

Ponmudy's remarks also drew sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson CR Kesavan, who demanded his removal from the Ministerial post, stating that he has no "moral rights" to stay as Minister.

Kesavan accused the ruling DMK of indulging in "mere eyewash" by removing Ponmudy 'from just the party's position and not from the Tamil Nadu cabinet.

Earlier, DMK MP Kanizmozhi too condemned Minister Ponmudy's remarks, calling them "unacceptable."

"Minister Ponmudy's recent speech is unacceptable. Regardless of the reason for the speech, such vulgar remarks are condemnable," Kanimozhi posted on X.

Ponmudy had purportedly made a 'joke' on two different sects of Hinduism, Shaivism and Viashnavism, drawing criticism from multiple leaders.

Reader Comments

P
Priya K.
Apologies are good but actions speak louder. Will he actually change his behavior? We've heard too many empty apologies from politicians. 🤔
R
Rahul S.
At least he apologized immediately. Many politicians double down on their mistakes. This shows some accountability.
M
Meena V.
As a woman, I'm tired of hearing "regret" after the damage is done. We need leaders who think before they speak, especially about marginalized groups.
A
Arjun P.
The DMK did the right thing by removing him from the party position. Religious tolerance should be non-negotiable in our diverse society.
S
Sneha R.
I appreciate Kanimozhi speaking up against her own party member. That takes courage! More leaders should call out wrongs regardless of party lines.
K
Karthik N.
While the apology is welcome, I'm concerned this is becoming a pattern. Public figures need media training and sensitivity workshops. One offensive "joke" is one too many.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
DMK K Ponmudy Tamil Nadu Politics Women's Rights Political Controversy Hinduism
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