Upasana Kamineni Responds To IIT Hyderabad Egg Freezing Debate Clarifying Intent Behind Her Statement

New Delhi: Upasana Kamineni Konidela, in a speech at IIT Hyderabad, described egg freezing as the greatest protection for women. Following this, she faced severe criticism on social media. Amid growing criticism, she clarified that her intention was to initiate a meaningful discussion about women's pregnancy options and career timelines, not to stir controversy.

In a post shared on Wednesday evening at 11:00 PM, Upasana wrote, "I'm glad I started a healthy debate, and thank you for your respectful responses." She called it a necessary conversation and expressed her intention to continue sharing her opinions.

Upasana egg freezing comment X

In her post, Upasana shared her personal experiences as a "fact check," writing, "I married for love and companionship at 27, a decision I made on my own terms. At 29, I decided to freeze my eggs for personal and health reasons. I had my first child at 36, and now, at 39, I'm expecting twins. For me, marriage and career aren't competing priorities. They're equally meaningful parts of a life. But I decide the timeline; it's not a privilege, it's my right."

She further said that she will soon share her views on privilege and also appealed to employers to work together to include more women in the workforce.

The statement given at IIT Hyderabad became the center of controversy

During her address, Upasana said that the greatest insurance for women is freezing their eggs. Because then, you can choose when to marry, when to have children, and when to become financially independent on your own terms. She also pointed out that when asked about interest in marriage, men raised more hands than women, while women appeared more career-oriented. She described this as a new picture of progressive India.

Support and criticism

Her comments received support from some experts and working women who value women's self-determination and future planning. However, critics point out that egg freezing is financially out of reach for most women in India and that the advice does not reflect broader socio-economic realities.

Amidst the constant backlash, Upasana clarified that she will not only defend her statement but will also continue to present egg freezing as one of the many options that can help women balance ambition, biological timing and societal expectations.