The Kerala Chapter of the Network of Women in Media, India (NWMI) on Tuesday condemned Union Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs Vayalar Ravi’s response to a woman journalist of a private television channel. “The Minister’s insinuations and words show that he considers the whole incident a joke. When asked (for) his reactions to the developments in the Suryanelli rape case in which P.J. Kurien’s name has resurfaced, the minister questions her intention and also makes a remark on her morals and integrity”, a statement issued at the Press Club here said.
It was not accepted conduct from a senior Minister and shows the lack of sensitivity needed in a leader of his stature, the statement said. His statements were unbecoming of a man of his experience as people’s representative.
“We believe that if journalists who have to ask questions and get reactions to happenings in current affairs are treated thus”, then the common woman stand no chance at all. About 25 women from media were present and the meeting planned to send a petition to President, Prime Minister, Congress president and Kerala Chief Minister.
