Nirmala Seetharaman referred to the 1989 state assembly humiliation of late Tamil Nadu chief minister and AIADMK leader Jayalalithaa.
Tamil Nadu Assembly Humiliation: Jayalalithaa’s Saree Incident (March 25, 1989)
Assault on Jayalalithaa, the First Female Opposition Leader
On March 25, 1989, a shocking incident unfolded in the Tamil Nadu assembly. Jayalalithaa, the Leader of the Opposition at that time and a prominent AIADMK (All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) leader, faced a distressing assault. This event left an enduring mark on the state’s political history.
Clash of Titans: AIADMK and DMK Legislators
The assembly session escalated into a violent clash between Jayalalithaa’s AIADMK and the ruling DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) legislators. High tensions fueled heated exchanges. M. Karunanidhi, the DMK leader and Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, engaged in a verbal duel with Jayalalithaa, using derogatory language.
Degrading Act: Jayalalithaa’s Saree Forcefully Pulled
Amidst chaos, an unspeakable act occurred. Jayalalithaa’s saree was forcefully yanked, exposing her and leaving her vulnerable. DMK members executed this act, showing blatant disregard for her dignity.
Jayalalithaa’s Resolute Response and Political Fortitude
The incident deeply impacted Jayalalithaa, fueling her unwavering determination. She vowed not to reenter the assembly unless she became Chief Minister. This pledge marked a turning point, paving the way for her triumphant return as Tamil Nadu’s Chief Minister.
Aftermath and Lessons
The incident still shadows Tamil Nadu’s political history. It highlights the challenges women face in politics and the dark side of political confrontations. This event reminds us of the urgency of gender equality and respect in politics, advocating for inclusive and dignified discourse.
Recently, Nirmala Seetharaman, the Finance Minister, referenced this incident in a parliamentary discussion, reigniting its significance as a symbol of the obstacles women in politics overcome.
No-confidence move against the Modi administration
On July 26, the opposition introduced a no-confidence motion that Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla accepted. A no-confidence motion has been brought against Narendra Modi twice now.
Ratnavali