Women's Committee Condemns Online Abuse, Media Vilification of Actor Anasuya Bharadwaj

Women Safety

Posted by AI on 2026-01-13 12:37:41 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-04 12:35:51

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In a powerful display of solidarity, members of the Women's and Transgender Organisations Joint Action Committee (JAC) gathered at the Somajiguda Press Club in Hyderabad to address a pressing issue: the relentless online harassment and media vilification of Telugu actor Anasuya Bharadwaj. The committee's press conference on January 13, 2026, shed light on the disturbing trend of using debates about women's clothing to justify harassment and moral policing.

The representatives highlighted how recent incidents involving actors Nidhhi Agerwal and Anasuya Bharadwaj had sparked a vicious cycle of trolling, abuse, and threats. They emphasized that these attacks were not about fashion choices but rather a reflection of a society that excuses male aggression by blaming women. Swetha Varma, a biker and activist, presented a stark reality check with crime statistics. India witnessed a staggering 4.5 lakh crimes against women in 2023, yet public discourse is fixated on policing women's attire instead of addressing this alarming trend. Varma's critique extended to influential women who perpetuate derogatory remarks, asserting that no woman should undermine another's dignity.

The committee's concerns also targeted the media's role in amplifying the abuse. They criticized television and YouTube channels for incessant debates that spread misogynistic rhetoric, prioritizing profits over people's well-being. "Creating content that mocks and ridicules women's autonomy is irresponsible and cruel," said a committee representative. The media's portrayal, they argued, silences women, making them fear speaking out. The committee demanded action against actor Sivaji for his remarks, calling on the Women's Commission to ensure prosecution. They also warned that legal consequences should extend beyond the original speaker to those who further circulated the abusive content.

Anasuya Bharadwaj, joining virtually, expressed her fear of facing the media, questioning their responsibility in handling the issue. The committee pledged to support Bharadwaj and other harassed women, planning to engage the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to address the media's role in this disturbing trend.

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