Janata Dal (United) leader Sharad Yadav remained unfazed about the comments he made in the Rajya Sabha about the complexion of South Indian women and the words and gestures he used to describe their bodies despite widespread outrage over his remarks. Criticism is pouring in against the MPs who listened to the remarks and did not protest, prompting women activists to demand a code of conduct for MPs.
While speaking on the Insurance Bill in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, Mr. Yadav said Indians had an obsession for fair skin. He then went on to say, “ South ki mahilaye jitni khoobsurat hoti hai, utni hi unki body bhi...hamara yahan itni nahi hoti, woh nritya bhi janti hai ” (South Indian women are beautiful and so are their bodies ... women in our parts are not so [beautiful]. They also know how to dance).
Barring Kanimozhi of the DMK, the members did not protest. Brinda Karat of the CPI(M) said the JD(U) leader’s remarks were indicative of his sexist mindset. Despite the widespread criticism of his comments, Mr. Yadav has not apologised.
