MSP apologises for hurt caused by rape 'demonisation' comments
Scottish Green MSP Q Manivannan has apologized for past podcast comments regarding the 'demonisation' of rape and the nature of sexual violence. The remarks, which suggested rape is a 'spectrum,' drew significant backlash from survivors' groups and political opponents.
Why it matters
The controversy highlights the tension between academic discourse on social issues and the political necessity of maintaining public trust and sensitivity toward victims of sexual violence.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Manivannan was elected to the Scottish Parliament as a Green MSP in May's election
A newly-elected MSP has apologised for the hurt caused by comments in which they talked of the "demonisation" of rape.
Scottish Green Party politician Q Manivannan has also faced criticism for suggesting rape is a "spectrum of things" during a podcast recorded before they were elected to the Scottish Parliament.
Earlier, the Scottish Rape Crisis Alliance (SRCA) - which represents four rape crisis centres - said there is "no hierarchy of rape" and warned the MSP not to minimise sexual violence.
In a statement, Manivannan said clips from the podcast had been "selectively edited" but said they were "sorry" for the upset, and insisted they would never seek to diminish a rape survivor's experience.
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