In a rally to mark DMK leader MK Stalin’s birthday, actor Radha Ravi tried to compare rivals of his party DMK, to disabled children. In a crass, callous, insensitive speech, he mocked disabled children, imitated their facial expressions, and said they were incapable of interacting with, or playing with “normal” children. Even as his diatribe rolled on, other politicians and members of the DMK laughed along.
Radha Ravi’s horrifying speech was shared on social networks, and has prompted activists working on disability rights to protest the actor’s speech. Activists had planned to picket in front of Radha Ravi’s house, on account of which police have increased security for the actor. Further, as the police denied permission, the protesters moved to a venue close by.
Reports also say some of the activists and protesters are looking to press charges against actor Radha Ravi.
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Deepak Nathan, an activist said, “The way Radha Ravi dramatically enacted differently-abled people was so demeaning. Being part of a party whose leader is also on a wheelchair, it’s ironic that he could make such remarks.”
“It is a criminal offence to make fun of the differently-abled, and we will be filing a FIR against Radha Ravi in Teynampet Police station. Let this be a lesson for people in future who want to make such comments.”