‘A mob of prostitutes’: Ex-Abdul Kalam aide Ponraj’s derogatory remarks on TVK women cadres spark outrage

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Chennai: Condemnations are mounting against Ponraj Vellaichamy, a former advisor to former President APJ Abdul Kalam, for his derogatory remarks referring to female cadres of the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) as “prostitutes.” The remarks, made during an interview with a private YouTube channel, have sparked widespread outrage from TVK functionaries.

Ponraj’s controversial remarks

In the interview, Ponraj, who currently maintains a pro-DMK stance, stated: “Tamil Nadu is an intellectual state—a state that excels in literacy rates and educational standards. We must thank Vijay for exposing the fact that, even in such a state, there exists a mob of ignoramuses. It is an unruly, uncultured mob of ignoramuses. It is a mob of prostitutes—women who declare, ‘I do not need a husband; I only want Vijay.’ We must commend Vijay for revealing to the world the existence of this mob of ignoramuses—a fan base teeming with prostitutes—who claim they will be whatever he desires: a younger sister, an elder sister, or even a wife.”

Outrage and demand for apology

The remarks have sparked strong condemnation from TVK cadres and functionaries, who have demanded that Ponraj apologize. Social activists have also expressed their outrage over the language used against women.

However, Ponraj has refused to apologize. He stated, “I will not retract my use of the word ‘prostitute.’ Prostitutes can only be called prostitutes; only by calling them that will it truly sting them. Therefore, I will not apologize for using the term ‘prostitution.’”

Following Kalam’s passing, Ponraj founded a political party in 2016 called the ‘Abdul Kalam Latchiya India Party.’ He subsequently merged that party with the Makkal Needhi Maiam (MNM), which is currently part of the DMK-led alliance.