Regional News

Stop Being the ‘Pickle’ in Politics: Former Minister Motamma Urges Women to Shed Obsession with Glamour

By Editor

Posted on February 4, 2026

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Stop Being the 'Pickle' in Politics: Former Minister Motamma Urges Women to Shed Obsession with Glamour

Mangaluru : Former Minister and veteran Congress leader Motamma expressed her concerns regarding the current state of women in politics during her speech at the “Mahila Vaibhava 2026” program in Mangaluru. Addressing the event organized by the Federation of Mangaluru Taluk Women’s Councils, she criticized the growing trend where women feel the need to be “glamorous” to survive in the political arena. She emphasized that women must be active and sharp in their work rather than focusing on physical appearance or seeking validation through superficial means.

Motamma strongly advised women to move away from the mindset of being overly “obedient” just to get noticed by male political leaders. Using a sharp culinary metaphor, she warned that as long as women continue to “grin and bow” (showing submissiveness) instead of asserting their leadership, they will remain nothing more than a “pickle” in a meal—a side dish rather than the main course. She urged women to stop trying to please everyone and instead focus on becoming influential decision-makers who command respect through their capabilities.