Scottish Green MSP Apologizes After Describing Rape as Spectrum

The Scottish Green Party has refused to withdraw the party whip from MSP Q Manivannan following a backlash over podcast comments from February 2025. In the footage, Manivannan described rape as a "spectrum" and suggested there is a "demonisation of rape," arguing that different modes of consent exist and that perpetrators do not always fit a narrow stereotype.

The Scottish Rape Crisis Alliance and Rape Crisis Scotland condemned the remarks as deeply irresponsible, stating in an open letter that there is no hierarchy of rape and that such language minimizes sexual violence. Political opponents, including the Scottish Conservatives, Scottish Labour, the Liberal Democrats, and Reform UK, called for Manivannan's suspension or removal from the party whip, with some describing the comments as appalling.

Q Manivannan, a survivor of sexual abuse, later issued an apology, stating they were horrified that their words were selectively edited to mislead the public. While maintaining that the clips were taken out of context, Manivannan accepted responsibility for using abstract language. The Scottish Greens defended the MSP, asserting that the party unequivocally condemns sexual violence and that the comments were misrepresented. Separately, reports have emerged challenging Manivannan's previous claims regarding a disadvantaged background in India.