'Lapse in judgment': Tamil Nadu minister K Ponmudy apologizes for objectionable remarks on women

NEW DELHI: Tamil Nadu forest minister K Ponmudy on Saturday apologized for his derogatory and vulgar remarks against women and certain sects of Hinduism, saying it was a "lapse in judgment" by him.

Ponmudy said, "I sincerely apologize for the inappropriate words I used while speaking at an event organized by the Thanthai Periyar Dravidar Kazhagam. As someone who has been in public life for a long time, I am deeply sorry for this lapse in judgment."

He added, "I immediately felt deep regret for the inappropriate remarks I had made. I regret that my speech caused hurt to many and created an embarrassing situation. I once again offer my heartfelt apologies to everyone who was hurt by my words."

Following his controversial remarks, the ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) removed Ponmudy from his position as the party's deputy general secretary; however, he was not removed as minister.

DMK MP Kanizmozhi, sister of party head and Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin, too, condemned Ponmudy's remarks, calling them "unacceptable."

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AIADMK's Sellur Raju also slammed the DMK leader, accusing him of having a "habit" of making "disrespectful" remarks about women.

Raju told reporters, "Minister Ponmudi has made it a habit to continually speak disrespectfully about women and marginalized communities."

Ponmudy's remarks also drew sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson CR Kesavan, who demanded his removal from the ministerial post, stating that he has no "moral rights" to continue.