JAC condemns media debates on women’s clothing demands action over Anasuya Bharadwaj abuse

Press Meet on ‘Clothes, Culture and Cyberbullying’

A press meet was held on ‘Clothes, Culture and Cyberbullying’ by the Women and Transgender Organisations Joint Action Committee at Somajiguda Press Club in Hyderabad on Tuesday, January 13, 2026.

Condemnation of Online Harassment

Members of the Women’s and Transgender Organisations Joint Action Committee condemned the sustained online harassment and abuse of Telugu actor Anasuya Bharadwaj. They demanded strict legal action against those responsible and accountability from television and digital platforms that amplified the attacks.

Concerns Over Misogyny in Media

During the press conference, the Committee stated that the controversy surrounding women’s clothing has been used to justify harassment and cyber abuse against women in the public eye. They noted that ongoing debates on television and social media have normalized misogyny and shifted focus away from accountability for crimes against women.

Impact of Comments on Women

Referring to recent incidents involving actors Nidhhi Agerwal and Anasuya Bharadwaj, the Committee highlighted that comments made by a Telugu actor about women’s clothing triggered a cycle of trolling and threats. They emphasized that these incidents reflect how society excuses male behavior by placing the burden of violence on women.

Statistics on Violence Against Women

Swetha Varma, a biker and activist, cited data from the National Crime Records Bureau. She stated that India recorded 4.28 lakh crimes against women in 2021, 4.45 lakh cases in 2022, and 4.5 lakh cases in 2023. Varma criticized the diversion of public discourse towards policing women’s attire instead of addressing the rise in violence against women.

Call for Solidarity and Change

Sravya, an actor and performer, expressed concern over the need for public discussions to defend women’s autonomy. She noted that as more women assert their independence, the backlash has become more aggressive. She rejected the notion that men ‘cannot control themselves’ and urged young people to call out misogynistic behavior.

Criticism of Media Practices

The committee members criticized the tone of television debates and online programs. They expressed dismay at the spread of misogynistic rhetoric against women’s choices. They stated that such content normalizes the idea that women’s bodies are public property and perpetuates a culture of toxicity.

Demands for Legal Action

The representatives demanded action against Telugu actor Sivaji for remarks made against Nidhhi Agerwal and Anasuya Bharadwaj. They called on the Women’s Commission to ensure prosecution and warned that legal action should extend to those who amplified the remarks.

Anasuya Bharadwaj’s Statement

Anasuya Bharadwaj, who joined the meeting virtually, accused sections of the media of distorting her statements. She questioned the media’s responsibility and expressed fear of facing the media due to the abuse she faced.

Seeking Protection and Support

Bharadwaj stated she had endured online harassment for two years but felt compelled to speak up as the situation escalated to threats against her and her family. The Committee expressed its support for her and all women facing harassment and planned to write to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.