A comment by senior Congress leader C Motamma at a public event in Karnataka has triggered a sharp political confrontation, drawing criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party and prompting a wider debate on gender, authority and the language of empowerment in public life.Motamma, a former minister and one of the most prominent women leaders in the state, told an audience that women in politics should be assertive and visible rather than merely following instructions issued by senior leaders. The remark, framed as advice on how women could carve out space in a male-dominated political system, was quickly seized upon by opponents, who described it as inappropriate, disrespectful and reflective of what they called a deeper problem within the Congress’s internal culture.
The BJP accused Motamma of undermining collective discipline and belittling party leadership, arguing that her words suggested women were being reduced to passive followers unless they pushed back forcefully. Party spokespersons said the comment trivialised the sacrifices of women workers who operate within organisational hierarchies and follow established processes to rise through the ranks. They also claimed the statement risked sending a misleading message to young women about political participation, portraying obedience and teamwork as weaknesses rather than essential aspects of democratic politics.
Congress leaders in Karnataka moved quickly to contain the fallout. Some senior figures defended Motamma, saying her words were taken out of context and that she was speaking from long personal experience about the structural barriers women face in politics. Others adopted a more cautious tone, acknowledging that the phrasing could have been sharper and stressing the need for sensitivity when discussing gender roles in public forums. Privately, party managers expressed concern that the controversy could distract from organisational efforts ahead of upcoming political battles in the state.
Motamma herself sought to clarify her position, saying she had intended to encourage women to speak up, assert their views and not remain invisible within political structures that have traditionally marginalised them. She maintained that her remarks were not aimed at any individual leader or party, but were a broader reflection on how women often struggle for recognition despite years of work. Supporters argued that the backlash illustrated precisely the problem she was highlighting: discomfort when women challenge established norms or question hierarchical expectations.
The episode has reopened a long-running discussion in Karnataka politics about the space available to women within major parties. Despite decades of electoral politics, women remain underrepresented in legislative bodies and decision-making roles. While parties across the spectrum regularly speak of empowerment and inclusion, critics note that women are often confined to organisational wings or symbolic positions, with limited influence over strategy and candidate selection.
Political analysts say the strong reaction to Motamma’s comment reflects the sensitivity around internal dissent and the unease that arises when gender intersects with authority. Advising women to be assertive can be read in multiple ways, particularly in a political culture that values loyalty and discipline. For rivals, the remark offered an opportunity to question the Congress’s commitment to respectful discourse, while for supporters it underscored the difficulties faced by women who speak candidly about their experiences.
The BJP’s response also highlighted the competitive nature of gender politics in the state. By condemning Motamma’s words, party leaders sought to position themselves as defenders of respect and organisational values, even as they continue to face scrutiny over their own record on women’s representation. Congress figures countered that the outrage was selective and politically motivated, pointing out that blunt or controversial remarks by male leaders often attract less sustained criticism.