Many of us were stunned upon finding out that M. Sugu had been arrested for physically beating S. Pavithra this week.
According to Sinar Harian, the YouTube star was allegedly slapped in the face several times until it bled. In addition to the bruises on her face, Pavithra’s arm was also swollen from being hit by a sickle.
A spokesperson for the couple took to social media to release the following statement:
“Hi, the couple (Sugu and Pavithra) would like to take some time off and focus on their personal life and hence, they would not be proceeding with any brand engagement for few weeks now (sic).”
It’s no surprise that the famed duo will have to take a break from the limelight in lieu of recent events. A lot of Pavithra’s followers and fans are outraged at Sugu’s behaviour and have been urging her to leave the abusive husband.
Many commented that this is a common and toxic behaviour among men in the Indian community. It goes without saying that domestic abuse cases are often swept underneath the carpet.
Having said that, Michelle Yesudas – who is a Legal Adviser from International Commission of Jurists (ICJ) that protects human rights – has a good point. The focus shouldn’t be on race or stereotypes, but on the heart of the matter – which is violence against women.
Check out her tweets below:
4. Domestic violence is a literal collapse of trusted social systems, people are being abused by the people who are assumed to be their support structure. That is what we should be worried about
— Michelle Yesudas (@chelle_yesudas) July 23, 2020
6. Sugu and Pavithra being Indian shouldn't be erased from the conversation. It is very important when recognising their relationship with socio-economic structures, opportunities and being ethnic minorities in Malaysia.
We just shouldn't rest on harmful stereotypes.
— Michelle Yesudas (@chelle_yesudas) July 23, 2020
Source: Sinar Harian.
