Key facts
- Opposition MP Rahul Gandhi criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi's reaction to young women using expletives during a protest.
- Gandhi argued that Modi's focus on the gender of the protesters reflects patriarchal attitudes.
- The protests, led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP), were seeking education reforms.
- Modi had described the language used by protesters as a "culture shock" but stated he forgave them.
- A survey indicated that a significant percentage of Indians admit to using foul language.
A debate has resurfaced in Indian politics regarding the use of expletives by women, sparked by recent protests and subsequent comments from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opposition MP Rahul Gandhi.
During a 35-day protest led by the Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) in Delhi, young women directed foul language at the prime minister. Modi responded by calling it a "culture shock" but stated he forgave them, suggesting it was an opportunity for correction. However, Gandhi criticized Modi's focus on the gender of the protesters, arguing that both male and female participants used similar language. He suggested that singling out women reflects a patriarchal mindset and that society needs to "smash this patriarchy."
The controversy intensified when a 15-year-old protester faced significant online abuse and threats after a video of her using expletives went viral. Her family was forced to relocate due to the backlash. Gandhi made his remarks at a student gathering in Pune, weeks after the protest concluded.
Journalists and activists point out that women in India have historically used profanity, citing traditional wedding rituals where women sing expletives. They argue that describing the protesters' language as a "culture shock" reveals double standards, especially given instances where politicians, including Modi and his party colleagues, have been criticized for misogynistic comments and using slurs against women.
Social activist Sunil Jalan, who campaigns against cuss words, believes the focus should be on the act of swearing itself, not the gender of the person using it. A survey conducted by his NGO found that over half of participants admitted to using foul language, with high prevalence rates in northern Indian states. Jalan views swearing as a "virus" normalized by comedy, films, and public discourse, necessitating a reining in.
Conversely, some, like CJP spokesperson Sourav Das, argue that profanity is a fundamental aspect of protest and cannot be criminalized, though it may be distasteful to some. Sociologist Shiv Vishwanathan suggests that the widespread use of expletives, even in formal settings like Parliament and courtrooms, indicates a deeper breakdown of democratic discourse, a decline in respect, and a lack of reasoned argument.