VT Balram wears lungi to Independence Day event to assert cultural freedom

Congress leader and MLA VT Balram hoisted the national flag while wearing a lungi during an Independence Day celebration at the Thrithala Grama Panchayat. Balram stated the choice of attire was an assertion of cultural freedom and a stand against discrimination.

The gesture serves as a response to recent controversy in the Rajya Sabha, where BJP MP Sushmita Dev referred to CPI(M) MP John Brittas as “lungi vala”. Brittas and other opposition members condemned the term as a derogatory insult to South Indian culture and identity. Following protests and a privilege notice, the Rajya Sabha Chair directed that no remarks demeaning dress or culture should be made.