NEW DELHI: Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Rajiv Kumar, when asked on Tuesday about possible action against Bharatiya Janata Party’s Ramesh Bidhuri for his comments against Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, said he strongly condemned derogatory comments against women but he refrained from naming Bidhuri directly.
He said that after the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) comes into force today, following the announcement of the election date, action will be taken against people who make derogatory comments about women.
“These comments against women are highly condemnable. We have issued strict guidelines and will not tolerate such behaviour,” the CEC said.
“We will denounce and condemn this in very clear terms,” Kumar said. He added: “While we empower women and encourage them to participate in democracy, any comments against women are shameful.”
The controversy around Bidhuri intensified after her comments on Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi sparked outrage.
Bidhuri, BJP candidate from Delhi’s Kalkaji constituency, found himself in hot water after a video of his comments went viral. Speaking at a rally, he claimed that the roads in Kalkaji would be as smooth as Priyanka Gandhi’s cheeks if the BJP came to power. In the face of widespread criticism, Bidhuri expressed regret and retracted her statement.
“I express my regret and take back my words,” he told ANI. However, he attempted to defend his comments, drawing comparisons with a similar statement made by former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav.
Bidhuri’s comments provoked harsh reactions from opposition leaders. Congress leader Supriya Shrinate slammed the BJP, calling the comment “shameful” and accusing the party of fostering an anti-women mentality. “What more can you expect from someone who has previously used foul language against a parliamentary colleague in Parliament?” Shrine said. He demanded an apology from the BJP and urged its leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, to take responsibility.
AAP leaders also criticized Bidhuri, with Delhi Chief Minister Atishi calling the BJP “anti-women”. Atishi questioned the party’s ability to ensure women’s safety in the capital, saying, “If a BJP leader and MP can make such statements, how will they protect the citizens of Delhi?”
Congress candidate Alka Lamba accused Bidhuri of repeatedly insulting women and urged voters to reject him. “Everyone has sisters, daughters and mothers at home. Should that person represent Kalkaji? “You should apologize,” he said.
The controversy comes as Delhi prepares for the assembly elections scheduled for February 5. The BJP faces a tough battle against the Aam Aadmi Party and the Congress in a high-stakes election.