CHENNAI: Women members of the PMK and CPM demanded that a member's maiden speech should not be referred to as 'kanni pechu'. In Tamil, the term 'Kanni' also refers to a young woman, which is closely linked to virginity.
During the debate on the demands for grants for the Education and Municipal Administration Departments, Usilampatti MLA M Vijay alleged that the DMK regime was responsible for the water crisis in his constituency.
When DMK members tried to intervene, the Treasury Benches said that it was the member's 'kanni pechu' (maiden speech) and asked them to allow him to speak.
Following this, PMK floor leader Sowmya Anbumani said that the term 'kanni pechu' should be avoided and that 'maiden speech' or 'introductory speech' would be appropriate. Supporting her, lone CPM woman MLA T Latha shook hands with Sowmya over the issue.
Intervening in the matter, Minister for Tamil Development and School Education Rajmohan also extended his support from the Treasury Benches and said the demand could be considered by the Speaker.
However, the Speaker did not give any ruling on the issue.