Actor and director Vishwak Sen has sharply criticized actor Sivaji for his recent comments suggesting women should wear sarees or dresses that fully cover their bodies, stating that women do not need anyone dictating their attire or judging them based on it.
Vishwak Sen expressed his views on X, stating, “Opinions are common, but some should really stay unspoken. This man needs to stop spreading this nonsense. Women don’t need anyone dictating what they wear or how they should be judged. He does not represent real men.”
He joins a growing list of celebrities condemning Sivaji, whose remarks were made at an event promoting his film ‘Dhandoraa’. In light of the criticism, Sivaji has since issued an apology.
Actor Manchu Manoj, who responded to Sivaji’s comments, emphasized that policing women’s clothing or imposing moral responsibility on them is “outdated and unacceptable.” He shared his thoughts on X, saying, “Came across some deeply disappointing comments last night. A civilised society protects women’s rights instead of policing their choices. #RespectWomen #RespectYourself.”
In his statement, Manchu Manoj remarked, “This kind of statement is deeply disappointing. Policing women’s clothing or placing moral responsibility on them is outdated and unacceptable.” He further asserted that respect and accountability should originate from individual behavior rather than shaming women based on their attire.
He also pointed out that such comments violate Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Indian Constitution, which guarantee fundamental rights. “Comments like these violate the spirit of Articles 14, 15, and 21 of the Constitution of India. Equality, dignity, and personal liberty are non-negotiable; women’s clothing is not up for public judgment,” he stated.
Manchu Manoj took it a step further by apologizing on behalf of senior actors whose remarks had “demeaned women and reduced them to objects.” He declared, “I unequivocally apologize on behalf of those senior actors whose derogatory remarks have demeaned women and reduced them to objects. Such words do not represent all men. We cannot, and will not, normalize or ignore this behavior. Women deserve respect, dignity, and equality at all times. Silence is not an option, and accountability is essential.”