From Udhayanidhi Stalin to Azam Khan: Politicians whose remarks about women sparked outrage

Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) leader and Leader of the Opposition in Tamil Nadu, Udhayanidhi Stalin, recently sparked controversy over his alleged double-meaning remark involving actor Trisha. The senior politician was arrested and released after a case was filed against him. Although the son of MK Stalin, the former Tamil Nadu chief minister, has denied the allegations against his double-meaning remark, the controversy continues to hit headlines.

However, it isn't the first time for a political leader in the country to come under the scanner over remarks involving women, often dubbed ‘sexist’. From Pappu Yadav to Azam Khan, check the list:

Mulayam Singh Yadav

In 2014, Mulayam Singh Yadav was caught in the middle of nationwide outrage. Addressing a public rally, he questioned the death penalty for rape convicts.

Referring to those accused of sexual assault, he said that "boys make mistakes" and argued that they should not be sentenced to death for such "mistakes". The remarks were widely condemned by political leaders, women's rights activists and civil society groups for undermining the seriousness of sexual violence in the country.

Azam Khan

During the 2019 Lok Sabha election campaign, Azam Khan landed in a controversy after making an offensive, personal remark about his rival candidate Jaya Prada.

In a public speech, he made a sexually suggestive comment referring to her. His remark drew sharp criticism from political parties. The Election Commission of India termed the remarks a violation of the Model Code of Conduct. He was temporarily banned from campaigning for 72 hours.

Digvijaya Singh

In 2013, Digvijaya Singh faced backlash after objectifying Congress leader Meenakshi Natarajan at a public event.

Later, Singh asserted that the phrase was in praise. However, many viewed it as derogatory and sexist, alleging that it reduced women in politics to their appearance rather than their capabilities. The remarks were strongly criticised by women's organisations and opposition parties.

Pappu Yadav

In April 2026, Pappu Yadav came under fire after claiming that many women advance in politics through sexual favours.

The remarks sparked widespread outrage, accusing him of making a derogatory statement that demeaned women in society.

The Bihar State Women's Commission took suo motu cognisance and issued him a notice in the matter. Later, Yadav apologised while still insisting that his comments were aimed at reflecting the exploitation of women in politics.

Udhayanidhi Stalin

On Monday, Udhayanidhi Stalin created a storm on the internet with his remarks targeting allegedly actress Trisha Krishnan, who is rumoured to be romantically involved with CM Vijay.

At a rally during the Cauvery protest, junior Stalin was interrupted by “Trisha, Trisha” chants. He responded with a remark while referring to the Cauvery water issue, which drew criticism from several politicians, who described it as "derogatory" and "double meaning."

His comments also drew condemnation from several women, including those from the film industry, opposition parties and accused him of misogyny. The women's wing of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) lodged a police complaint against the DMK leader, following which he was arrested and later released. However, he maintained that there was no ‘double meaning’ in his statement.