‘90% of women cannot start political careers without going to a neta’s room’: Pappu Yadav stirs up row

New Delhi: Purnea MP Pappu Yadav has ignited a nationwide controversy with his disparaging comments regarding the entry of women into the political landscape. During a recent interaction, the independent MP alleged that “90% of women cannot enter politics without entering the rooms of male leaders,” implying that women must engage in sexual compromises to succeed in their political careers.

The remarks, which have drawn swift condemnation from across the political spectrum and civil society, have been labeled as deeply misogynistic and insulting to the dignity of women leaders in India.

The Controversy

Speaking in the context of recent legislative developments—specifically the failure of a Constitutional Amendment bill in the Lok Sabha—Yadav claimed that women, while revered as goddesses in Indian culture, are consistently denied respect within the political system. However, his attempt to highlight systemic issues quickly spiraled into a sexist diatribe.

“In India, women are called goddesses, but they will never be respected here. System and society are responsible for this… 90% of women cannot do politics without entering the room of politicians,” Yadav stated, causing immediate shock and outrage among observers.

Legal Action and Notice

The backlash was swift, with the Bihar State Women’s Commission taking suo motu cognizance of the comments. The Commission has issued a formal notice to the Purnea MP, seeking an immediate explanation for his derogatory statements.

In its communication to the MP, the Commission highlighted that such comments undermine the dignity and self-respect of women working in the public sphere. The Commission has asked Yadav to explain why he made such disparaging remarks and has even questioned why a recommendation should not be made to the Lok Sabha Speaker to initiate action, including the potential cancellation of his parliamentary membership.

“We have taken cognizance of the objectionable statements made by the Purnea MP. Appropriate action will be taken once we receive his response,” stated the Commission’s chairperson.

Political Fallout

Yadav’s comments come at a sensitive time, following heated debates in Parliament over reservation bills and gender representation. Political analysts suggest that such rhetoric is not only harmful to the discourse on women’s empowerment but also reflects a regressive mindset that continues to persist within the political corridors.

As of now, there has been no official statement from the MP’s office apologizing for the remarks, even as demands for a public apology and stricter disciplinary action grow louder from women’s rights organizations and opposition leaders.