The Election Commission of India took action against Congress leader Randeep Surjewala, issuing a show-cause notice regarding his comments about Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Hema Malini. Surjewala allegedly made remarks deemed “undignified” towards the actor-turned-politician, just before the Lok Sabha Elections 2024.
In response to Surjewala’s purported remarks, the Election Commission described them as “undignified, vulgar, and uncivilized.” The commission emphasized that such comments not only insulted Hema Malini but also disrespected her position as a Member of Parliament and undermined the dignity of women legislators and women in public life.
The notice demanded Surjewala’s response by April 11, 2024, regarding the remarks made against Hema Malini. Additionally, the Election Commission directed Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge to ensure respectful public discourse towards women by party leaders and functionaries.
Congress MP Randeep Surjewala makes a vile sexist comment, that is demeaning and derogatory, not just for Hema Malini, who is an accomplished individual, but women in general. He asks, “MLA/MP क्यों बनाते हैं? ताकि वो हमारी आवाज़ उठा सकें, हमारी बात मनवायें, इसीलिए बनाते होंगे।… pic.twitter.com/JO0UIXSOt1
— Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) April 3, 2024
Expressing concern over repeated violations by senior Indian National Congress members, the Commission urged the party to take immediate steps to comply strictly with its advisories on maintaining the honor and dignity of women during public discourse. The deadline for informing the Commission about the measures taken by the party was set for April 12, 2024.
The Election Commission reaffirmed its stance that election campaigns should not serve as platforms for dishonoring women, emphasizing the need for respectful conduct towards female candidates and public figures.
The controversy arose when BJP’s IT department head, Amit Malviya, shared an undated video alleging objectionable remarks made by Randeep Surjewala against Hema Malini. The video purportedly showed Surjewala commenting on the purpose of electing legislators and making a comparison involving Hema Malini.
Surjewala, however, defended himself, claiming that the video shared by the BJP leader was edited and distorted. He emphasized that his comments were taken out of context and denied any intention to insult or hurt Hema Malini.
Reacting to the controversy, Hema Malini asserted that opposition leaders should learn to respect women from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She criticized the targeting of popular figures and emphasized the need for mutual respect in public discourse.
#WATCH | Mathura, UP: On Congress leader Randeep Surjewala's statements on her, BJP MP Hema Malini says, "… They target only popular people because targeting the unpopular ones won't do them any good… They should learn how to respect women from PM Narendra Modi… I am here… pic.twitter.com/9FnPXTmqN4
— ANI (@ANI) April 4, 2024
As the BJP candidate from the Mathura constituency for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections, Hema Malini refrained from further comment on the matter, focusing instead on her nomination filing ceremony.
With the Lok Sabha Elections scheduled to commence from April 19, 2024, and results expected on June 4, 2024, the incident involving Randeep Surjewala’s remarks adds to the political tension ahead of the polls. The Election Commission’s action underscores the importance of maintaining decorum and respect in political discourse, particularly concerning the representation and treatment of women in public life.
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