‘Girlfriend gives 0% interest’: Chennai Metro ad sparks row over objectification of women

A fixed-deposit advertisement inside a Chennai Metro coach has triggered political backlash over its comparison between financial returns and personal relationships.

The poster from the Thiruvalluvar Transport Corporation Employee’s Co-operative Credit Society, known as THECOS, carried the slogan: “Girlfriend may give 0% interest, but our FD gives 14.40%.” The campaign used the comparison to promote the returns offered by the society’s fixed deposits.

DMK MP Thamizhachi Thangapandian was among the first to object. She urged the Chennai Metro Rail administration to remove the advertisement, arguing that public transport used by thousands of people should not display messaging that degrades women.

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Girlfriend may give 0% interest, but our FD gives 14.40%.

“An advertisement displayed inside the Chennai Metro Rail that degrades women and portrays them as objects is shocking. It is essential to ensure that advertisements in public places take into account the dignity of women,” Thangapandian wrote on X. She also called for tighter vetting rules to prevent similar advertisements from being approved.

The criticism spread beyond the ruling party’s political lines. AIADMK spokesperson Kovai Sathyan demanded direct legal action against those responsible for approving and distributing the advertisement, according to The Mint.

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An advertisement displayed inside the Chennai Metro Rail that degrades women and portrays them as objects is shocking. It is essential to ensure that advertisements in public places take into account the dignity of women.