- Minister Keerthana clarified the viral video was not her.
- Slams "regressive mindsets" focusing on women's attire.
- Apologised to woman wrongly identified in video.
A viral video featuring a woman in a dress was recently misidentified as Tamil Nadu’s industries and investment promotion minister, S Keerthana. The TVK Minister issued a formal clarification denying the claim and addressed the controversy, condemning the misogynistic nature of using a woman’s attire as a tool for political criticism.
'Track record of derogatory remarks'
Sharing a hard-hitting post on X, Keerthana said that the reaction in the video shows how “regressive and fragile mindsets" are carried by the people. “But I’m not surprised! What else can you expect from followers of a leader with a track record of deeply derogatory remarks against women?" she added.
The fact that a video of a woman simply going about her day can spark political hysteria
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tells you everything about the fragile, regressive mindset behind it. But I’m not surprised! What else can you expect from followers of a leader with a track record of deeply derogatory…
— Virudhai Magal Keerthana (@Keerthana4VNR) August 23, 2026
She questioned the netizens on why a woman’s clothes, appearance and joy are still treated as a matter of public trial. “When they can’t challenge us on our policies, governance, or track record, they resort to manufacturing narratives about the personal lives of leaders and their family members. Misogyny is the oldest weapon of those who have nothing substantive to positively contribute," she said.
She also argued that political rivalries turn to personal narratives when they do not have enough to challenge the government on its policies or performance. The Tamil Nadu minister also apologised to the woman whose name has been unnecessarily dragged into the controversy.
“And, to the woman in the video, dragged into this simply due to a passing resemblance, I'm sorry. You look stunning, and I hope you keep living on your own terms (and loving those highlights)," Keerthana added.
How Did The Netizens React?
The internet applauded the reaction, how Keerthana highlighted people's mindsets about women. A user said, “Their DNA is exactly like this. Just ignore all this nonsense and focus on your work.” Another said, “It’s whole DMK, ADMK AND NTK especially targeting you because of they can’t criticise your work anymore!"
A third user commented, “Atta girl. Even in our ancient times, women were much more respected and revered. Such a perverted mindset.”
A fourth user said, “DMK – ADMK – BJP – NTK ... every supporter was involved. All… disgusting creatures.”