Upasana Kamineni Addresses Controversy Surrounding Egg-Freezing Remarks

Post by : Mina Rahman

After receiving backlash for her comments on egg freezing at an IIT Hyderabad event, Upasana Kamineni Konidela has stepped forward to clarify her intentions. She stated that her goal was to promote a thoughtful discourse on women's reproductive rights rather than incite controversy.

In response to the rising online discussions, Upasana took to X to share her perspective, expressing gratitude for the constructive responses. “I welcome this healthy debate and thank everyone for their respectful participation,” she conveyed on Wednesday night.

Additionally, she mentioned her plans to discuss the nuances of privilege and urge employers to enhance women's representation in the workforce. She emphasized the importance of reviewing the facts she presented.

Upasana also provided a personal “fact check,” revealing her own experiences regarding marriage and fertility. She highlighted her love marriage at 27, her egg-freezing decision at 29 for health and personal reasons, having her first child at 36, and the anticipation of twins at 39. She stressed that her journey balances both marriage and career, with each timeline being a matter of personal choice.

During her talk, Upasana characterized egg freezing as “insurance” for women, enabling them to make independent choices regarding marriage and motherhood. She also pointed out a trend where more men than women in the audience expressed a desire for marriage, reflecting evolving attitudes in “Progressive India.”

Responses to her comments varied, with some healthcare professionals and working women supporting her view on autonomy and planning, while others criticized the high costs of egg freezing, which remain unattainable for many women in India.

Upasana remains committed to participating in this ongoing dialogue, positioning egg freezing as one of several options available to women navigating biological, professional, and societal pressures.