Pakam urged the NCW to take “suo moto cognizance” of the matter and ensure justice for Chum Darang while addressing the larger concerns of racial discrimination faced by Northeastern women.
Arunachal: The Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women (APSCW) has requested the National Commission for Women (NCW) to take action against social media influencer Elvish Yadav. He allegedly made derogatory and racial remarks against former Miss Arunachal and Bigg Boss contestant Chum Darang.
APSCW Chairperson Kenjum Pakam wrote to NCW Chairperson, highlighting that Yadav’s comments in a viral video were offensive not only to Chum Darang but also to women from Northeast India.
She stressed that such remarks create “a sense of fear and intimidation” among Northeastern women, especially those who aspire to work in Bollywood.
Pakam urged the NCW to take “suo moto cognizance” of the matter and ensure justice for Chum Darang while addressing the larger concerns of racial discrimination faced by Northeastern women.
The controversy has led to widespread criticism on social media, with many users demanding strict action against Elvish Yadav. The APSCW’s intervention is being seen as an important step in fighting racial bias and discrimination against Northeastern women in the entertainment industry.
While speaking on a podcast with Rajat Dalal, Elvish Yadav mocked Chum Darang’s name and her role in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s film Gangubai Kathiawadi.
He said, “Karanveer ko pakka COVID tha kyunki Chum kisko pasand aati hai bhai, itna taste kiska kharab hota hai! Aur Chum ke toh naam mein hi ashleelta hai… Naam Chum aur kaam Gangubai Kathiawadi mein kiya hai” (Karanveer must have definitely had COVID because who would like Chum, bro? Who has such bad taste! And even Chum’s name itself is vulgar… Her name is Chum, and she worked in Gangubai Kathiawadi).
Reacting to the comment, Chum Darang posted on Instagram, saying
“Disrespecting someone’s identity and name is not ‘fun.’ Mocking someone’s achievements is not ‘banter.’ It’s time we draw the line between humour and hate.”
She further added, “What’s even more disappointing is that this wasn’t just about my ethnicity. My hard work and a film backed by a visionary like Sanjay Leela Bhansali were also disrespected.”
Many people, including activists and social media users, are demanding accountability from Yadav. They argue that making fun of someone’s name and belittling their work is unacceptable.
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The issue has once again brought attention to the racism and discrimination faced by people from Northeast India in mainstream media and entertainment.
