Sayed Ali Majeed, a senior leader of the ruling Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPM] in Kerala, has ignited a major political and social controversy following a deeply sexist comment made after a local body poll victory.
While celebrating a male candidate’s victory in the Kasaragod district, Majeed reportedly stated that “Men should marry women for sex and children.” The comment was allegedly made while mocking the marital status of the defeated Congress candidate(women).
Literacy vs. Sexism:
This incident has sparked a wider debate, exposing the stark reality that high literacy rates alone (for which Kerala is renowned) do not guarantee freedom from sexism and regressive patriarchal views. Critics argue that such comments demonstrate that, regardless of electoral outcomes, women politicians and citizens often bear the brunt of personal attacks and societal backlash in every state.
Opposition parties are demanding a formal apology and strict disciplinary action against Majeed, stating that the remark exposes the ruling party’s deeply regressive stance on women, causing significant embarrassment to the CPM.Despite the uproar, the CPM has not yet announced public disciplinary action against the leader.