Pawan Kalyan flays remarks against Home Minister Anitha, calls for dignified political discourse
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan has condemned the remarks made by a former Minister against Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, describing it as
Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan has condemned the remarks made by a former Minister against Home Minister Vangalapudi Anitha, describing it as ‘objectionable and inappropriate’. In a statement on Tuesday, Mr. Pawan Kalyan said criticism and counter-criticism were a natural part of democratic politics. Yet, criticisms should be confined to policies and governance issues rather than personal remarks. He expressed concern over the comments allegedly made about the Home Minister’s appearance and attire, stating that such remarks not only targeted an individual but also demeaned women in general.
“Those speaking about women in public life must exercise restraint and responsibility. Comments on a woman’s attire or appearance amount to insulting all women,” he said. The Deputy Chief Minister said public representatives should remember that every word spoken in public is closely watched by civil society and carries wider social implications. Political leaders must uphold standards of decency and dignity in public discourse, he said.
Pawan Kalyan emphasised that disagreements in politics should be issue-based. If a political party disagrees with a government policy, it should criticise the policy itself rather than resort to personal attacks, he said. Referring to the ongoing political exchanges in the State, he advised the leaders of the ruling coalition to respond firmly to the objectionable remarks, while maintaining civility and decorum. The Jana Sena Party (JSP) president said the coalition did not need to use abusive language or meaningless personal attacks to counter political opponents.
Leaders should respond strongly, but in a manner appreciated by the civil society, he added.
The BriefWire