The Scottish Greens are under pressure following controversial remarks made by MSP Q Manivannan concerning the nature of rape. The Edinburgh and Lothians East MSP, who identifies as non-binary and transgender, sparked backlash after comments made during a podcast recorded last year came to light. In the discussion on The Subjective Space podcast, Manivannan suggested there is a “demonisation of rape” and described the crime as existing on a “spectrum,” remarks that have since drawn widespread condemnation.

Manivannan stated that societal revulsion is directed more at the concept and act of rape than the stereotypical image of a "monster rapist." The MSP added, “it is a spectrum of things that constitute that one homogenised word, rape.” In a statement issued by the Scottish Greens, Manivannan clarified that the intention was to highlight that “not all rapists fit a stereotype,” emphasizing a broader understanding of the issue.

Despite the clarification, the comments have been met with strong criticism from politicians and advocacy groups alike. Reform MSP Senga Beresford called for Manivannan’s immediate suspension from the party, describing the remarks as unacceptable. Labour MP Tracy Gilbert demanded a full retraction and apology, while Rape Crisis Scotland’s Nicola Love labelled the statements “deeply irresponsible,” warning they perpetuate harmful myths about rape that the organisation and others have worked to dismantle over many years.

Rachael Hamilton, deputy leader of the Scottish Conservative Party, also condemned the remarks and urged the Scottish Greens to distance themselves from Manivannan’s comments. The controversy adds to ongoing debates about how sexual violence is discussed in political and public spheres, and how messaging from elected officials impacts survivors and wider societal attitudes.

The Scottish Greens have yet to announce any disciplinary actions regarding the incident. Manivannan maintains that the remarks have been taken out of context and insists the intended message was to nuance public perceptions about rape and offenders rather than to diminish the severity of the crime.