New Delhi [India]: Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit on Monday criticized BJP candidate Ramesh Bidhuri for his offensive remarks against Delhi Chief Minister Atishi and Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, stating that an apology was insufficient and demanding strict action against Bidhuri for his repeated use of objectionable language.
Bidhuri, the BJP candidate contesting against CM Atishi from Kalkaji in the upcoming Delhi Assembly elections, sparked controversy on Sunday by making derogatory comments about Atishi’s surname and family. While addressing a public gathering, he said, “Atishi, who was Marlena, is now Singh. She has even changed her father.”
Dikshit questioned the BJP’s decision to nominate Bidhuri, highlighting his history of using inappropriate language, particularly against women leaders. He said, “Ramesh Bidhuri has made such statements previously also. The question arises against the BJP that a person who has used objectionable language in the past too has been made a candidate, and that too from a very important seat. It is obvious that he will make such statements at every chance he gets. He used inappropriate statements against Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in the morning and then against CM Atishi in the evening. An apology is not enough; I hope action is taken against him.”
The controversy escalated further when AAP MP Sanjay Singh shared a video on social media where Bidhuri could be heard making another contentious remark, promising to make Kalkaji’s roads as smooth as the “cheeks of Priyanka Gandhi” if BJP came to power.
Bidhuri, facing backlash from opposition parties, expressed regret on Sunday for his remarks about Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, though Congress leaders have deemed the apology inadequate.
Dikshit also reflected on the broader decline in political discourse, cautioning the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) against repeating past mistakes. He remarked, “But I also want to remind the AAP that they also made objectionable statements against everyone 10-12 years ago, against big leaders like Sonia Gandhi and Sheila Dikshit. AAP should remember that if the standards of politics are lowered, it can have unfavourable results in the long run.”
As the Delhi Assembly elections approach, the rivalry between Congress, AAP, and BJP continues to intensify, with all three parties exchanging allegations and criticisms. The elections are scheduled for February 2025, with the official dates expected to be announced soon.