Hyderabad: The Telangana State Women’s Commission on Saturday summoned actor Sivaji and cautioned him against making remarks that could be perceived as denigrating women, following controversial comments he made at a recent film function. The actor’s observations on the clothing worn by some actresses, coupled with the language he used, triggered sharp reactions from women’s organisations and sections of the film industry, prompting the commission to step in.Appearing before the commission, Sivaji admitted to his mistake and issued an unconditional apology. He said he was withdrawing his remarks in their entirety and assured the panel that he would henceforth speak and conduct himself with dignity and respect towards women. The actor also told the commission that he would work to bring about changes in films he is associated with, in line with the suggestions made.
Commission chairperson Nerella Sharada strongly took exception to the actor’s remarks, particularly the suggestion that women’s dress sense was responsible for the harassment they face. She pointed out that harassment cuts across age and attire, affecting even children and elderly women. She also flagged the continued harassment of women artistes despite their appearing in traditional clothing, underscoring that clothing has no link to dignity or safety. The commission said such comments amounted to ‘moral policing’ and eroded women’s dignity. It stressed that filmmakers, actors and event organisers carry a responsibility to ensure that women artistes are treated with respect and provided a safe, dignified environment. The controversy erupted after a video of Sivaji’s speech at the film event went viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism for reinforcing stereotypes that blame women for harassment. Women’s groups accused the remarks of legitimising misogyny and shifting accountability away from perpetrators.The incident comes amid renewed scrutiny of conduct at film events and public platforms, with women’s organisations repeatedly calling for greater sensitivity and accountability from public figures whose statements carry wide influence.
