'Misogyny is the oldest weapon'; Tamil Nadu Minister Keerthana responds to viral video

Tamil Nadu Industries Minister S Keerthana responded to the viral video falsely claiming to be hers that ignited debate on social media. In the video, a woman in a western outfit was seen alighting from a car, and many adjudged her to be the Tamil Nadu minister due to the passing resemblance.

In a fitting response, Keerthana said it was not she who appeared in the video and also asked people not to judge women based on their clothes and appearance.

“When they can’t challenge us on our policies, governance, or track record, they resort to manufacturing narratives about the personal lives of leaders and their family members. Misogyny is the oldest weapon of those who have nothing substantive to positively contribute,” Keerthana responded on social media.

Keerthana also apologised to the woman in the video for unnecessarily being dragged into the controversy.

“You look stunning, and I hope you keep living on your own terms (and loving those highlights! ),” wrote Keerthana.

The former political consultant and strategist who worked with DMK during the 2021 elections, Keerthana is one of the most popular faces of the TVK party, after winning from Sivakasi in the 2026 Assembly polls in her first attempt. She is also the youngest minister in Vijay’s cabinet and is a polyglot who speaks fluent Hindi.