NCW seeks explanation from Kamal Nath for referring Imarti Devi as ‘item’
The National Commission for Women (NCW) on Monday sought an explanation from former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath for his "item" jibe against state minister Imarti Devi. The women’s body has also forwarded the matter to the Election Commission for necessary action. “The Commission strongly condemns this irresponsible and disparaging statement made by the leader,” it said in a statement.
“The words used in the video are highly defamatory and shows disrespect towards the dignity of a woman.”
The panel further said, "At a time when we want more women to enter politics, such disrespectful remarks against a woman leader, that too from a person holding such a responsible position is very unfortunate."
BJP protests against Kamal Nath
Earlier in the day, BJP leaders in Madhya Pradesh, led by Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan held a protest against Kamal Nath. Chouhan also wrote to Congress president Sonia Gandhi, asking her to condemn Nath's remarks and remove the former chief minister from all party posts.
Nath, who heads the Congress in Madhya Pradesh, also came in for flak from Bahujan Samaj Party leader Mayawati, who asked Dalits to "teach the Congress a lesson" over the remark.
Kamal Nath doesn't know how to respect 'harijan' women: Imarti Devi
Imarti Devi, the state's women and child development minister, who quit the Congress to join BJP, is a Dalit leader. Hitting back at state Congress chief Kamal Nath, Imarti Devi said he did not know how to respect a Dalit woman and had lost his mind after losing the chief minister's post. "He (Nath) does not know how to speak decently. He belongs to Bengal and is not from Madhya Pradesh. What does he know about respecting a Harijan (Dalit) woman? Nath went mad after resigning as chief minister and he can say anything." she said.
Kamal Nath apologises for 'Item' jibe
Later in the day, Nath apologised for his comments. "If somebody is hurt by my item remark, then I’m sorry for that," he said.
(With inputs from agencies)
