New Delhi: Independent MP Pappu Yadav escalated the controversy over his remarks on women in politics, claiming that "70-80% of the politicians watch porn" and alleging widespread exploitation, even as the National Commission for Women (NCW) demanded an apology.
Responding to the backlash, Yadav said in a Facebook post, "...I have said this on the Floor of the House too that 70-80% of the politicians watch porn. So, get everyone checked. If there is porn on my phone, check me too...Who are these people who have served me a notice? Who are they with? There are several photos with former ministers. People who live in glass houses shouldn't throw stones...I had said that male politicians do not let women enter politics without exploiting them. Is that incorrect?...I am fighting women's fight...They exploit women...There is sexual exploitation against 755 male politicians and there are chargesheets against 155...The whole of India is tainted. If I speak of male politicians, why are they (Women's Commission) troubled?...These politicians exploit women and then they speak of Women's Reservation Bill..."
The remarks come amid outrage over a viral video in which the MP from Purnea purportedly said that "90 per cent of women cannot do politics without going into a leader's room."
Reacting sharply, National Commission for Women chief Vijaya Rahatkar termed his comments "highly objectionable, insensitive and against the fundamental spirit of the Constitution".
"The statement is highly objectionable, insensitive and against the fundamental spirit of the Constitution. It reflects a narrow and discriminatory mindset that seeks to limit women's rights. The Bihar State Women's Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of the matter," she said in a post on X.
Rahatkar added that women are "providing strong leadership from panchayats to Parliament" and said such remarks "not only insult their capabilities and achievements but also weaken efforts toward positive social change."
Calling the statement "condemnable and completely unacceptable", she asserted that the country "will no longer tolerate any ideas that undermine women's dignity and equal participation" and demanded that Yadav issue an unconditional public apology.
The Bihar State Women's Commission has also issued a notice to Yadav, asking him to respond within three days on why the Lok Sabha Speaker should not be approached for recommending his disqualification.
"We have taken suo motu cognisance of the objectionable remarks made by the Purnea MP. Further action may be taken upon receipt of a reply from him," Commission Chairperson Apsara said.
Yadav, however, has defended his earlier remarks, maintaining that he was highlighting "the fact that many women end up being exploited by those whom they consider their mentors."