Playback singer Chinmayi Sripaada and actor-politician Khushbu Sundar criticised Tamil Nadu Leader of Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin over his controversial remarks during a political rally, hours before reports emerged of police officials reaching his Chennai residence in connection with the row.

The controversy stems from a speech Udhayanidhi delivered at a farmers' protest in Thanjavur on Monday. While criticising Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay, a person in the audience shouted the name of a female Tamil actor. Udhayanidhi responded with a remark that many interpreted as a sexually suggestive double entendre, drawing sharp criticism from political parties and social media users.

Reacting to the incident, Chinmayi said politicians should focus on public issues instead of dragging women into political discourse. She said the remark went beyond merely failing to stop the crowd and accused Udhayanidhi of making an even more objectionable comment. Recalling the misogynistic political rhetoric of the past, she said younger politicians should strive to do better rather than perpetuate such behaviour. Calling it "a disappointment", she urged women to express greater outrage and solidarity.

Khushbu also condemned the speech, calling it "crass, cheap and deeply derogatory". She said reducing women to political props reflected a toxic political culture and warned that normalising such language would only erode the dignity of women in public life. Stating that political disagreements should never descend into personal and vulgar attacks, she demanded that Udhayanidhi issue an unconditional public apology to actor Trisha.

The remarks have triggered widespread political backlash. BJP leader Narayanan Thirupathy described the statement as "disgusting, obscene, vulgar and shameful," while TVK supporters accused Udhayanidhi of lowering the level of political discourse.

Meanwhile, police officials arrived at Udhayanidhi's Neelankarai residence, prompting speculation over a possible arrest. The DMK subsequently approached the Madras High Court seeking protection for its leader. However, DMK MP T R Baalu denied that Udhayanidhi had made any remarks targeting any woman, calling reports suggesting otherwise "false."