'Not a Single Person on That Stage Corrected Him'; U Prathibha Expresses Disappointment Over UDF Leader's Misogynistic Remarks

Kayamkulam: U Prathibha, the LDF candidate from Kayamkulam, has said she was “shocked and deeply hurt” by the misogynistic remarks made against her by a UDF leader, and confirmed that she will pursue legal action.

Addressing a press conference, Prathibha said the comment by Muslim League leader Irshad was not only offensive but also a deliberate attempt at character assassination during the election campaign. She expressed particular disappointment that leaders present on the stage—including women—did not intervene or object to the remark at the time.

“I cannot accept a mere expression of regret. I will file complaints with both the police and the Election Commission,” she said, adding that such comments reflect a mindset that seeks to undermine women by questioning their dignity and morality.

Prathibha suggested that the growing public support for the LDF may have prompted such attacks. “Instead of discussing development issues, they are resorting to personal attacks,” she said. She became visibly emotional during the press interaction.

The controversy stems from remarks made by UDF constituency convenor and Muslim League leader A Irshad during an election convention, where he suggested that Prathibha was contesting the election based on her “oratory skills and physical appearance.”

The event was attended by several senior Congress leaders, including K C Venugopal, DCC president B Babu Prasad, candidate M Liju, and KPCC General Secretary Johnson Abraham. However, none of those present publicly objected to the statement at the time.

Several LDF leaders, including K H Babujan, A Shajahan, B Abinsha, P Ganakumar, Joseph John, Saju Edakkad, Liyakath Parambi, Zakir Mallancheri, Salim Murukkummoodu, Tajuddeen Valoothara, Subin Thoppil, and Shereef Pathiyoor, were also present at the press conference.