Indore

Union Women and Child Development Minister Annapurna Devi on Monday said making objectionable comments about women in stand-up comedy performances is "extremely wrong" and asserted that legal action should be taken against those responsible.

Her remarks come amid growing public debate over the limits of humour and accountability in comedy performances following controversies involving certain comedians and content creators accused of making remarks that allegedly glorified coercion and non-consensual behaviour. The minister, however, did not directly refer to any particular case.

"No one has the right"

Responding to questions from reporters in Indore, Annapurna Devi said:

"It is extremely wrong. Whether it is a comedy show or any other programme, action should certainly be taken against people who make inappropriate remarks about women."

She noted that authorities have acted in similar instances in the past and reiterated that such conduct cannot be justified in the name of entertainment.

"No person has the right to make such inappropriate comments about women that have an adverse impact on society and people," she said.

Child marriage debate requires wider discussion

The minister also addressed questions regarding the ongoing discussion on raising the minimum legal age of marriage for women.

She said the issue requires broader social consultation before any decision is taken.

Under existing Indian law:

• Men below 21 years of age, and
• Women below 18 years of age

cannot legally marry.

Under the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006, those found guilty of facilitating or participating in child marriage can face:

• Imprisonment of up to two years,
• A fine of up to Rs 1 lakh, or
• Both.

UCC and social awareness

On questions relating to discussions around implementing a Uniform Civil Code in Madhya Pradesh and issues such as live-in relationships and polygamy, Annapurna Devi stressed the importance of public participation and awareness.

"Some laws already exist in this regard, but people's mindset can also change through social participation. There is a need to increase awareness at the grassroots level," she said.

She emphasised that the government considers the opinions of all stakeholders before proceeding on socially sensitive issues.

Madhya Pradesh committee gathering opinions

The comments come as the Government of Madhya Pradesh has constituted a high-level committee to seek public feedback on the feasibility of introducing a Uniform Civil Code in the state.

The panel is currently touring various districts to gather views from different sections of society.

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Earlier in the day, Annapurna Devi also reviewed the functioning of the Indore regional centre of the Savitribai Phule National Institute of Women and Child Development, holding meetings with officials to assess its activities and programmes related to women and child welfare.