The controversy over the alleged sexist remarks of Janata Dal (United) leader Sharad Yadav refuses to die down as he remained unapologetic in the Rajya Sabha that witnessed an uproar over his defiant attitude on Monday.
Despite calls to him to desist from such a language and withdraw his remarks over the complexion and body of South Indian women, Mr. Yadav said he was ready to debate discrimination based on colour.
With Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani appealing to him not to bring in issues such as complexion of women, he retorted, “Who are you?”
“Why should I apologise? I raised a very important issue of discrimination on colour,” he said. “There has been a long struggle against discrimination based on colour ... I am ready to participate in a debate any time.”
Ms. Irani reacted sharply to the remarks, asking Mr. Yadav to refrain from commenting on the complexion of women in any manner. “I appeal through you [chair] to the gentleman, do not make comments about the colour of any woman’s skin. I beg of you. You [Sharad Yadav] are a senior member, a very wrong message is going to the rest of the country,” she said.