A Maharashtra BJP minister provoked uproar by comparing daily fish consumption to having "eyes as beautiful" as actress Aishwarya Rai, news agency PTI reported. On social media, a video of state-tribal minister Vijaykumar Gavit's remarks during a public function in Nandurbar district, north Maharashtra, has gone viral.
“People who consume fish on a daily basis develop smooth skin and their eyes sparkle. If anyone looks at you, the person will get attracted (towards you)," he was quoted by PTI in its report.
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“Did I tell you about Aishwarya Rai? She lived near the seashore in Mangaluru. She would consume fish daily. Have you seen her eyes? You will also have eyes like her,” the minister is heard stating. “The fish contain some oils, it makes your skin smooth,” added the 68-year-old minister, whose daughter Heena Gavit is BJP’s Lok Sabha member, PTI reported.
Instead of making such "frivolous" remarks, NCP legislator Amol Mitkari said the minister should focus on issues affecting tribals.
BJP MLA Nitesh Rane said: “I eat fish daily. My eyes should have become like that (like those of Aishwarya Rai). I will ask Gavit sahib if there is any research on this,” PTI reported.