A political controversy churned out on 17 March 2026 after AIADMK Rajya Sabha MP C. Ve. Shanmugam made a sexist remark targeting actor Nayanthara, while criticising the DMK government’s public outreach initiative “Unga Kanavai Sollunga” (Tell us your dream). The incident occurred during an AIADMK protest in Villupuram, where Shanmugam mocked Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s efforts to gather citizens’ aspirations to shape Tamil Nadu’s development trajectory.

Taking a crude jab at the initiative, Shanmugam said, “I want Nayanthara, will you fulfil? Will the Chief Minister fulfil someone’s dream to marry Nayanthara?” The remarks were made at a rally that, ironically, centred on women’s safety and law and order.

The comment triggered a wave of protests which spread throughout the entire community. DMK spokesperson Dr Syed Hafeezullah denounced the statement as “misogynistic and vulgar,” urging the opposition to “criticise our policies, but don’t vulgarise women.” Minister Geetha Jeevan accused Shanmugam of demeaning women through his actions, which contained both “perversity and malice.” The backlash extended beyond political circles, with leaders from the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee (TNCC) and members of the Tamil Nadu Nadigar Sangam (film artists’ association) demanding an unconditional apology from the MP.

The AIADMK party has not issued any statements which support Shanmugam. Party insiders have reportedly sought to distance themselves, describing the remarks as his “personal opinion.”

The controversy occurs at a politically critical time, as it occurs only weeks before the important Assembly elections on 23 April 2026. It also follows a similar incident involving BJP leader Nainar Nagendran, who recently apologised for inappropriate comments about actor Trisha Krishnan. Shanmugam has previously courted controversy for sexist jibes, notably suggesting the DMK might offer “a wife for free” as an election freebie.

The latest episode has intensified debates over misogyny in Tamil Nadu’s political discourse, with public figures and civil society calling for greater accountability and respect for women in public life.