Actress Trisha and Tamil Nadu Industries Minister S. Keerthana have been subjected to sexist and misogynist trolling on social media [1, 2].
The harassment reflects a broader trend of gender-based attacks against women in public life within Tamil Nadu. By targeting high-profile figures in both the arts and government, these attacks highlight the challenges women face when navigating the public sphere in the region [1, 2].
Minister Keerthana faced specific backlash after a woman wearing a black dress was misidentified as the minister on social media [2]. The subsequent comments focused on her appearance and personal choices. In response to the wave of harassment, Keerthana addressed the nature of the attacks.
"This is misogyny," Keerthana said [2].
She further questioned the obsession with her attire and personal life by asking, "Why should it matter?" [2].
Similar patterns of harassment have targeted actress Trisha, with users focusing on her clothing and private life [1]. The trolling against both women has been characterized as part of a rise in misogyny within Tamil Nadu politics and culture, where social media is frequently used to police the behavior and appearance of women [1, 2].
These incidents have sparked a wider conversation regarding the safety and dignity of women public figures. While the targets differ in their professions—one a cinema star and the other a government official—the nature of the trolling remains consistent. The attacks prioritize physical appearance and personal conduct over professional contributions or policy work [1, 2].
“"This is misogyny."”
The coordinated targeting of a government minister and a prominent actress suggests that misogyny in Tamil Nadu is not limited to a specific sector but is a systemic issue across political and cultural spheres. When public officials are targeted for their clothing rather than their governance, it indicates a social climate where gender-based policing may be used to undermine the authority and visibility of women in leadership.
