National Women's panel head slams Yesudas's 'jeans' remark

Criticising legendary singer K J Yesudas for his remark against women wearing jeans, Chairperson of National Commission for Women, Lalitha Kumaramangalam, today said it was unfortunate that such an "unethical" comment was made by the top-notch singer.

"It is unfortunate that such a statement has been made by a man who has been so much in public life, whatever may be his personal view ...There is nothing illegal in it but it was unethical," Kumaramangalam told Mathrubhumi News.

Speaking at a Gandhi Jayanthi function here, Yesudas had said, "women should not cause trouble to others by wearing jeans.... What should be covered must be covered."

The legendary Malayali singer, who always appears in pristine white 'dhothi' and 'kurta' also said that attire like jeans was against Indian culture, which valued modesty as the greatest quality of women.

The comment by the 74-year-old playback singer and Carnatic vocalist sparked instant protests from women organisations of different political hues.