NCW Calls Siddharth's Tweet To Saina Nehwal "Misogynistic," Directs Authorities For FIR

Siddharth-Saina Nehwal tweets controversy: The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Monday took cognisance of a tweet made by Rang De Basanti actor Siddharth to badminton star Saina Nehwal, calling it "misogynist. Saying Siddharth's remark amounts to disrespect and is outrageous to the modesty of a woman, NCW has directed authorities in Maharashtra to file a First Information Report (FIR).

"The Commission condemns such lewd and inappropriate remark made by the actor and has taken suo moto cognisance in the matter. Chairperson Rekha Sharma has written to the Director General of Police Maharashtra to immediately investigate the matter and register FIR under relevant provisions of the law," a statement from NCW read.

NCW has also written to Twitter India asking for an immediate block on Siddharth's comment and "take appropriate action against him for posting offensive remarks... and insulting her right to live with dignity."

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Siddharth-Saina Nehwal Tweets: Here's What Happened

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's convoy was held up at a flyover in Punjab on January 5 owing to protestors reportedly blocking the roads. Being called a major "security lapse," the matter was heard by the Supreme Court, which has agreed to a high-level probe into the breach.

Several prominent voices on social media reacted to the incident, including Nehwal who condemned the "cowardly attack." More here.

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Responding to Nehwal on January 6, Siddharth wrote, "Subtle cock champion of the world... Thank God we have protectors of India." Taking a shot further, he added, "Shame on you #Rihanna." The latter remark makes a retrospective reference to Nehwal's reaction to pop star Rihanna's February 2021 tweet on the farmers' protest. 

Siddarth's tweet has been slammed by netizens claiming it contains sexual innuendos and sexism.

Following wide outrage against his controversial tweet, Siddharth in a follow-up comment wrote, ""COCK & BULL" That's the reference. Reading otherwise is unfair and leading! Nothing disrespectful was intended, said or insinuated. Period."