BJP Women Legislators Demand Apology from Pappu Yadav Over Derogatory Comments
In a strong rebuke, BJP legislators Shreyasi Singh, Maithili Thakur, Anamika Singh Patel, and Sangeeta Kumari on Wednesday vehemently criticized Purnia MP Rajesh Ranjan, popularly known as Pappu Yadav, for his derogatory remarks targeting women politicians across the country. The lawmakers, addressing a joint press conference at the BJP office in Patna, called for an unconditional public apology from the independent MP, while also taking aim at the RJD and Congress parties for their conspicuous silence on the issue.
Cross-Party Criticism and Demands for Accountability
Shreyasi Singh, the Jamui MLA, directly questioned Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Vadra, demanding clarity on whether they stand with their political associate, Pappu Yadav. She also challenged RJD leader Tejashwi Prasad Yadav to explain his position regarding the Purnia MP's comments. "Women achieve success through their own struggles and resilience in any field," Shreyasi asserted, highlighting that Pappu's wife, Ranjeet Ranjan, has herself served as both a Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha MP. She warned that such disparaging remarks could potentially discourage future generations of women from entering politics or other professions.
Emotional Impact and Societal Reverence for Women
Maithili Thakur, a renowned folk singer and first-time MLA, emphasized the emotional toll such comments take on the families of women achievers. "Any woman who succeeds in any field does so through immense struggle and dedication," she stated, urging Pappu Yadav to issue a public apology. Maithili further argued that the remarks not only insult women but also demean men who support gender equality, adding that women currently active in politics are deeply hurt by such statements.
Sangeeta Kumari, another BJP MLA, described Pappu's statement as a direct assault on the self-respect, dignity, and honor of women. She pointed out the irony of his wife being an MP and questioned how he could make such remarks in a country like India, where women are traditionally revered. "This is a land that holds women in high esteem; such comments are unacceptable and must be retracted," she declared.
Broader Political Implications and Alliance Reactions
Anamika Singh Patel, an MLC, linked Pappu Yadav's statement to his mindset, character, and the ideology of the political party under whose patronage he operates. In a separate development, BJP ally and HAM(S) national president Santosh Kumar Suman reacted sharply to the controversy. Suman condemned the opposition's mindset, stating that it reveals their disdain for women. "It is shameful that instead of apologizing, attempts are made to justify such statements," the former minister said, accusing the opposition of hypocrisy for speaking about women's dignity in public while acting contrary in practice.
The incident has sparked a wider debate on gender respect in Indian politics, with calls for greater accountability from public figures. The BJP women legislators' unified stance underscores the growing demand for respectful discourse and the protection of women's dignity in the political arena.
