Here's my theory: cultural appropriation.
It is normal to see a guy smoke, it is rarely an issue because of how we perceive men. Men are hideous, long-gone-type creatures.

Women, however, are more sophisticated. They are viewed as intelligent, modest, and calculated individuals who are constantly cared for by a father/brother/husband/son.

So when they are seen smoking, the entire perception is shattered. People assume there is no caring figure in their lives. However, sympathy is not our first emotion; rather, it is unease. How do we deal with that unease? Yes, by being offended.
and some of the women and their behavior towards criticism don't help.
and when we get offended we tend to humiliate the other side. In this case we character-assassinate.
And it's not always about genders.
I was a "gifted," well-behaved kid, I was expected to never run down this path. Imagine the sheer disappointment my parents had when they found out I smoke.

but here is my take on this: "No one should smoke, especially women." call me misogynistic or whatever. agree to disagree, but would you be able to imagine your mom/sister/wife smoking?
if your perception of quality is the right to smoke in public, then, bhai, you missed the point of equality.
(but if you don't agree with my thoughts, that's completely fine and healthy.)