Ramesh Bidhuri's Controversial Remarks at Election Meetings Draw Criticism from Congress and AAP

BJP candidate Ramesh Bidhuri faced backlash for his comment about making roads in Kalkaji like Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi's cheeks. The Congress demanded an apology, accusing him of insulting women. Some BJP leaders also criticised his remarks. Despite expressing regret, Bidhuri was accused by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) of making derogatory comments against Delhi Chief Minister Atishi during a rally in Rohini.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal condemned Bidhuri's remarks, stating that BJP leaders have crossed limits of shamelessness. He asserted that Delhi's citizens would not tolerate insults towards a woman chief minister. "All the women in Delhi will take revenge for this," Kejriwal stated on X. Both Congress and AAP claimed Bidhuri's comments reflected an anti-women mindset within the BJP.

Controversial Remarks and Political Reactions

During a campaign event in Kalkaji, Bidhuri allegedly compared road construction to Priyanka Gandhi's cheeks, echoing a past comment by Lalu Prasad about Hema Malini. This statement went viral on social media, drawing widespread criticism. Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate called it "extremely shameful" and indicative of an anti-women mentality, demanding apologies from both Bidhuri and BJP leadership.

Bidhuri, known for past controversies, initially defended himself by referencing similar remarks made by Lalu Prasad about Hema Malini. He questioned why Congress did not demand an apology from Lalu Prasad, accusing them of hypocrisy. "Hema Malini was from a simple family, is she not a woman?" he asked reporters.

Calls for Apology and Political Fallout

Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva advised against such statements, urging respect for women and proper language conduct. He reminded Congress of its own leaders' objectionable remarks in the past. BJP MP Kamaljeet Sehrawat emphasised that politicians should think before speaking to avoid controversy.

As criticism mounted, Bidhuri claimed his words were misinterpreted for political gain. "It was not my intention to insult anyone," he said on X, expressing regret if anyone was hurt. Meanwhile, AAP candidate Atishi accused BJP of fielding an anti-women candidate in Kalkaji, predicting voters would respond strongly in upcoming elections.

Impact on Upcoming Elections

Congress candidate Alka Lamba criticised Bidhuri for disrespecting women with indecent language. She questioned whether Kalkaji residents would support someone who disregards parliamentary dignity and women's respect. Mahila Congress workers led by Lamba burned an effigy of Bidhuri in protest.

The 70-member Delhi Assembly elections are scheduled next month. Bidhuri is no stranger to controversy; last year he faced condemnation for remarks against BSP MP Danish Ali in Lok Sabha. He later expressed regret during a Lok Sabha Privileges Committee meeting after a complaint was filed against him.