January 5, 2025: Ramesh Bidhuri, the BJP candidate from Kalkaji constituency, has expressed regret and retracted his controversial remarks about Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. He clarified that his comments were made in the context of similar remarks made by RJD leader Lalu Yadav. He also pointed out that the Congress party had remained silent when similar comments were made during Lalu Yadav’s tenure as a minister.
Bidhuri, whose remarks triggered outrage within Congress and among women’s rights groups, stated, “Such statements have been made before. I have said that in the context of what Lalu Yadav had said. Congress remained silent on that even when he (Lalu Yadav) was a minister in their government. If anyone is hurt by my remark, I express regret over it and I take my words back.”
The controversy erupted after a video of Bidhuri, shared by AAP MP Sanjay Singh, went viral. In the video, Bidhuri allegedly said that the BJP would make all the roads in Kalkaji “like the cheeks of Priyanka Gandhi” if the party came to power. This remark was immediately criticized as inappropriate and offensive, with many accusing Bidhuri of indulging in personal attacks and misogynistic rhetoric.
Congress leader Supriya Shrinate strongly condemned the remarks, calling them “shameful” and accusing the BJP of fostering an anti-women mindset. She tweeted, “BJP is extremely anti-women. Ramesh Bidhuri’s statement regarding Priyanka Gandhi is not only shameful but also shows his disgusting mentality towards women. But what else can be expected from a man who used foul language against his fellow MP in the House and did not receive any punishment? This is the real face of the BJP.”
Shrinate’s criticism also referenced an earlier incident where Bidhuri used offensive language against a fellow MP in Parliament, for which he did not face any consequences. This, according to Shrinate, exemplifies the BJP’s double standards and its failure to address the behavior of its members, especially when it comes to gender-sensitive issues.
Bidhuri’s apology comes amid mounting pressure from political opponents and women’s rights activists, with Congress and other parties demanding strong action against him. While his apology might help defuse immediate tensions, the episode has fueled ongoing debates about decorum, language, and respect for women in Indian politics.
BJP’s response to the matter will be closely watched, especially considering the growing calls for accountability and for ensuring that such remarks do not go unpunished.