Shashi Tharoor Condemns Ramesh Bidhuri’s Remarks on Priyanka Gandhi, Calls It ‘Petty’ and Disrespectful

Tharoor emphasizes mutual respect in politics as controversy brews over BJP leader’s controversial comments; Bidhuri expresses regret

New Delhi, January 6: Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has strongly criticized BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri’s controversial remarks about Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, calling them “petty” and stressing the need for mutual respect in politics.

Addressing the media on Sunday, Tharoor expressed disappointment over the tone of political discourse and highlighted the importance of maintaining dignity, even amid disagreements.

“Frankly, I think this is petty. We shouldn’t get into these things. What truly matters is that people should respect each other, regardless of political disagreements. We are not going around saying such things about BJP leaders, and they should also refrain from such remarks about us,” said Tharoor.

The Controversial Remarks

BJP leader Ramesh Bidhuri sparked backlash after he said that if BJP comes to power, roads in Kalkaji would be made as smooth as Priyanka Gandhi’s cheeks. The comment drew sharp reactions from Congress leaders and social media users.

Following the outrage, Bidhuri expressed regret, claiming that his statement was made in response to similar past remarks by RJD leader Lalu Prasad Yadav.

“Such statements have been made before. I referred to what Lalu Yadav once said. Congress remained silent then. If anyone is hurt by my remark, I express regret and take my words back,” Bidhuri stated.

Lalu Prasad Yadav had previously made a similar promise, vowing to make Bihar’s roads as smooth as actor Hema Malini’s cheeks.

Congress Leaders React

Congress leader Supriya Shrinate strongly condemned Bidhuri’s remarks, calling them “shameful” and evidence of a deep-rooted anti-women mindset within the BJP.

“Bidhuri’s statement against Priyanka Gandhi Vadra reflects a disgusting mentality towards women. This level of political discourse is unacceptable,” Shrinate wrote on X.

AAP MP Sanjay Singh also shared the video on social media, further fueling the controversy.

Political Climate in Delhi

The controversy emerges amid rising political tensions in Delhi, with Assembly Elections scheduled for February 2025. While AAP currently holds power with 62 out of 70 seats from the 2020 elections, BJP secured 8 seats, and Congress failed to open its account.

As election campaigns heat up, political leaders are under increased scrutiny, and remarks like these are likely to shape voter sentiment in the coming months.