A video from a marathon event held in Melur, Madurai, in connection with Chief Minister Joseph Vijay’s birthday celebrations has triggered controversy on social media, with questions being raised the conduct of Higher Education Minister Congress’ Viswanathan during the programme.
The event, organised as part of Vijay’s birthday celebrations, saw the participation of several school-going children, including girls who took part in the marathon.
Videos circulating online show Minister Viswanathan interacting with some of the girl participants after the event. In the footage, the minister is seen touching and massaging the legs of some of the girls and appearing to speak with them while making physical contact.
The visuals have since gone viral on social media platforms, prompting criticism from several users, activists and members of the public.
One wonders whether a minister should be engaging with minor girls in such a manner and such physical contact could definitely make children uncomfortable and blur personal boundaries.
Elders and parents expressed concern over the inappropriate conduct and that public representatives should be more mindful of children’s personal space and comfort while interacting with them at public events.
Recently, he was seen dancing to the Tamil song “Vaadi Vaadi Vaadi Kai Padaatha CD,” known for its double entendre lyrics, during Joseph Vijay’s birthday celebrations in Madurai. Questions were raised how a serving Higher Education Minister could participate in such a performance before students and youth and it is noteworthy that the controversy stemmed not from the act of dancing itself but from the choice of song. Responding to criticism, Viswanathan defended himself, saying the event was a joyful birthday celebration where students and youngsters had invited him to join them and that there was “nothing wrong” in respecting and celebrating with young people.
Subscribe to our channels on WhatsApp, Telegram, Instagram and YouTube to get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.
