NCW chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar
Credit: X/@VijayaRahatkar
Hyderabad: National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo motu cognizance of media reports on alleged derogatory remarks made by journalist VVR Krishnam Raju against Amaravati women during a TV debate.
The NCW termed it "outrageous" and an "insult to women" to refer to Amaravati as a “capital of prostitutes”. It strongly condemned the remarks, calling them unacceptable and inciting statements in public discourse. NCW Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar has written a letter to the DGP of Andhra Pradesh demanding a swift and time-bound investigation, and strict action against Raju under relevant laws.
NCW has also sought a detailed action taken report from the concerned authorities within three days. After the Tullur police registered an FIR, Raju has been absconding. Another accused mentioned in the FIR, senior journalist and Sakshi TV anchor, Kommineni Srinivas Rao was arrested by the police on Monday. He was produced before the relevant court on Tuesday and was remanded for 14 days.
An FIR has been registered against Srinivas Rao, panelist and senior journalist VVR Krishnam Raju, and Sakshi Media management. The case has been filed under multiple sections of 79, 196(1), 353(2), 299, 356(2), and 61(1) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), Section 67 of the Information Technology Act 2008, and provisions of the SC/ST Prevention of Atrocities Act.
The controversy erupted during the 'KSR Live Show' anchored and moderated by Kommineni Srinivas Rao on June 6. During the programme, Krishnam Raju allegedly said "Amaravati is no capital of gods" but rather "Amaravati is capital of prostitutes." These comments were strongly condemned by TDP senior leaders, including Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. Following complaints from women of Amaravati, Tullur police registered the case.
IT minister, Nara Lokesh commended NCW for its swift response. “I strongly commend NCW and Chairperson for their swift and decisive action against the vile, derogatory remarks by VVR Krishnam Raju targeting the brave women of Amaravati. Calling our women farmers ‘prostitutes’ is not just shameful, it's a criminal insult to their sacrifices. NCW’s directive for a time-bound probe & strict legal action sends a strong message such misogyny won’t be tolerated. Women are the backbone of Amaravati’s struggle, and we stand firmly with them. Justice must be delivered swiftly,” said Lokesh.