Rajasthan BJP Chief Compares State Budget To Dark-Skinned Bride, Congress Seeks Apology

The remarks drew strong criticism from the Congress, which demanded an apology from the state BJP chief.

Rajasthan BJP president Satish Poonia (PTI file)

New Delhi: Rajasthan BJP chief Satish Poonia came under fire from Congress after he compared the state budget to the face of a dark-complexioned bride after getting a good makeover.

Talking to reporters after Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot presented the Budget, PTI quoted Poonia as saying, "It seems to be a 'daubed up' budget. It seems like a dark-complexioned bride has been taken to a beauty parlour and presented after a good makeup."

READ | Rajasthan Budget 2022: Employees Appointed After Jan 1, 2004 Also Eligible For Pension Scheme

The remarks drew strong criticism from the Congress, which demanded an apology from the state BJP chief.

"Satish Poonia ji has not only insulted women, but also hurt the dignity of women with such indecent and irresponsible remarks. Using derogatory words for women, sisters and daughters has become the hallmark of BJP leaders," PTI quoted Congress state president Govind Singh Dotasra as saying.

All India Mahila Congress president Netta D' Souza called the "lewd remark" a "gross insult to our daughters".

"This very outrageous remark is not only an insult to women but it is an anti-constitutional statement that stinks of untouchability and apartheid," a statement by Mahila Congress said.

The Mahila Congress demanded an unconditional apology from Poonia and warned of a nationwide agitation. 

Lokesh Sharma, officer on special duty (OSD) to Gehlot, also condemned the remarks by the BJP leader.

"Respect for women is paramount. Such a racist comment by Satish Poonia ji against women, while criticising the budget, is not appropriate. We all have the responsibility to respect women," he tweeted.