'Girls educated in south, kept as slaves in north': DMK leader sparks row

DMK MP Dayanidhi Maran triggered a political and social debate after making remarks comparing the status of women in northern states with that in Tamil Nadu while addressing students at a government women’s college in Chennai.

Speaking at the event, Maran claimed that in several northern states, girls are discouraged from pursuing education and careers and are instead expected to stay at home and do household work, while Tamil Nadu actively promotes women’s education and empowerment. He urged students to take pride in the state’s approach towards girls’ education.

Maran praised the ruling DMK government and Chief Minister MK Stalin, calling Tamil Nadu the best state in India and crediting the Dravidian movement for laying the foundation of social justice and women’s education in the state.

The remarks drew attention for their sweeping generalisations, prompting criticism and debate over regional stereotyping and the realities of women’s education across different parts of the country. Political reactions soon followed, with opponents condemning the comments and demanding an apology.

The event was held under a state scheme during which laptops were distributed to students. Addressing the gathering, Udhayanidhi Stalin highlighted the role of education in empowering women and reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding access to technology and learning opportunities across Tamil Nadu.