Women MLAs in Tamil Nadu reiterate need to dispense with usage of ‘maiden’ speech
PMK MLA Sowmiya Anbumani said it could instead be called arimuga urai (introductory speech) or mudhal urai (first speech)
Floor leaders of women MLAs in Tamil Nadu have once again called for an end to the term "maiden" speech used for first speeches by female legislators in the House. Sowmiya Anbumani, a PMK leader, and Latha, a CPI(M) member, made this plea to Speaker J.C.D. Prabhakar on Thursday, August 24, 2026. They argued that the gendered term "kanni pechu" reinforces patriarchal stereotypes.
Sowmiya suggested alternative terms such as "arimuga urai" or "mudhal urai" for the introductory speech. School Education Minister Rajmohan, after consulting Speaker Prabhakar, stated that these suggestions could be given serious thought. Notably, BJP MLA Vanathi Srinivasan had previously raised the same issue, which the previous Speaker had also agreed to consider.
The Speaker also announced that Question Hour in the Assembly would resume from the following day, August 27.
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