Congress Leader Criticizes Unparliamentary Language Against Women in Politics

Mumbai, August 5: Former Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan has expressed his discontent regarding a recent social media post by the state Congress that referred to Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar as ‘Dumb Doll.’ He emphasized the need to avoid using unparliamentary language against women, especially in a political landscape where their representation is already limited.

Chavan took to the social media platform ‘X’ on Tuesday, stating, “This morning, I received a call from Anjali Tai Damania in Delhi. She raised concerns about the state Congress’s social media post regarding Deputy CM Sunetra Pawar. I assured her that I would look into it.”

He referenced an incident in Beed, where a journalist questioned Sunetra Pawar about law and order issues during a press conference. Instead of responding, she abruptly ended the conference. According to Chavan, this prompted the Congress’s social media commentary.

He remarked, “Clearly, such language could have been avoided when discussing women. There is already minimal space for women in politics. If a woman is actively participating in politics, she should be encouraged. Journalists have the right to ask questions, and ministers can choose not to answer. However, this has resulted in no answers regarding the law and order situation in Beed district. The Chief Minister and Home Minister should be held accountable for this.”

Chavan also drew a comparison between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the traditions of the Congress party, stating that the Prime Minister has established a precedent of not responding to journalists over the past 12 years.

He cited the late Ram Manohar Lohia and Indira Gandhi, noting, “Lohia used such words about Indira Gandhi, but she responded with action.”

Chavan affirmed that Sunetra Pawar is an active political figure holding a constitutional position in the state, making it inappropriate to speak about her in a derogatory manner. “Certainly, I expect her to respond with action.”

In conclusion, he advised party workers, stating, “I have no connection to this position, yet protests are being held against me. Before making allegations against anyone, workers should ensure they have complete information about the facts.”