The Bihar State Women’s Commission has taken suo motu cognisance of controversial remarks made by independent MP Pappu Yadav, in which he alleged that politicians “prey” on women and claimed that many women cannot enter politics without visiting a “male leader’s room.”
Following the remarks, the commission issued a formal notice to the MP, asking him to explain his statements within three days and clarify why action — including possible cancellation of his Lok Sabha membership — should not be considered.
The controversy has sparked sharp reactions across political circles and reignited debate over women’s safety and dignity in public life.
What Did Pappu Yadav Say?
The notice comes after a series of remarks made by Pappu Yadav during discussions surrounding the recently defeated women’s reservation proposal in Parliament.
Speaking about the condition of women in society and politics, Yadav said:
“In India, women are called goddesses, but they will never be respected here. The system and society are responsible for this.”
He went further, making remarks that drew widespread criticism:
“Who is indulging in domestic violence? Who preys on women — from America to India — it is politicians! 90% of women cannot start in politics without going to a male leader’s room.”
Yadav also claimed that exploitation of women exists at multiple levels of society, stating:
- Girls face exploitation in schools
- Harassment occurs in colleges in the name of ragging
- Women encounter exploitation in workplaces
- Political leaders behave “like vultures” toward women
He described exploitation as a deeply ingrained cultural problem affecting women across institutions.
Women’s Commission Seeks Explanation
The Bihar State Women’s Commission acted swiftly after the remarks surfaced, terming them serious and potentially harmful to women’s dignity.
The notice issued to Yadav seeks:
- A written explanation for his comments
- Clarification on the intent behind his statements
- Justification for why disciplinary action should not be initiated
Officials indicated that strong remarks about women — especially from elected representatives — demand accountability.
Political Backlash Intensifies
The comments triggered strong reactions from leaders across party lines.
Shehzad Poonawalla, a spokesperson for the Bharatiya Janata Party, criticised the remarks sharply.
In a post on social media platform X, Poonawalla wrote:
“Shocker statement! When the nation was pushing for Nari Shakti, see what Cong-supported MP is saying!”
He further added:
“He said that 90% of women cannot do politics without going into a leader’s room. This reflects their mindset.”
The statement has further intensified political tensions amid ongoing debates on women’s representation.
Political Context: Women’s Reservation Bill Defeat
The controversy unfolded against the backdrop of the defeat of the proposed women’s reservation legislation in Parliament.
The government’s Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill aimed to:
- Implement women’s reservation in legislatures
- Increase the number of Lok Sabha seats to 816
- Link implementation to delimitation exercises
However, disagreements over delimitation issues led to the Bill’s defeat in the Lok Sabha.
Earlier, Narendra Modi had reaffirmed the government’s commitment to women’s representation, stating that obstacles to reservation would be removed.
Modi also criticised opposition parties for resisting the proposed amendment and stressed that the setback would not halt efforts toward empowering women.
Why The Remarks Have Sparked Controversy
Yadav’s statements have drawn criticism because they:
- Generalised allegations against women’s political participation
- Suggested systemic exploitation without specific evidence
- Were perceived as derogatory toward women aspiring to enter politics
Women’s groups and political observers have highlighted that such remarks risk reinforcing harmful stereotypes about women’s dignity and role in public life.
What Happens Next
Pappu Yadav is expected to respond to the Women’s Commission notice within the stipulated three-day period.
Possible outcomes include:
- Submission of clarification or apology
- Further legal or disciplinary review
- Continued political debate surrounding women’s safety and representation
The case has once again brought attention to the broader issues of gender equality, workplace safety, and representation in Indian politics.