Lalu Prasad’s ‘ogle women’ remark regarding Chief Minister Nitish Kumar ignites uproar.

News Mania Desk / Piyal Chatterjee / 10th December 2024

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) President Lalu Prasad came under fire from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Janata Dal (United) (JD-U) for a contentious comment about Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s projected ‘Mahila Samvad Yatra,’ which is set to take place later this month.

Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Lalu Prasad criticized Kumar’s initiative, stating that the chief minister was going on the tour to “ogle at women” (nayan sekne ja rahe). The BJP and JD(U) condemned Lalu Prasad’s remark as rude, demeaning to women, and an affront to Bihar’s dignity.Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary expressed indignation, stating, “We knew Lalu ji was physically unwell, but his remarks show he has a sick mind.”

Bihar BJP chief Dilip Jaiswal echoed similar sentiments, adding, “Lalu ji’s comment reflects his mentality. It is an insult to women, and we will not tolerate such statements.” . Union Minister Giriraj Singh called the remark “disgusting,” exclaiming, “Only Lalu Prasad can stoop so low. His life has been full of selfishness and taint.” . JD(U) leaders also hit back strongly. Party spokesperson Neeraj Kumar said, “Lalu ji, you should focus your eyes on your own party and Congress. When you were in jail, your body was imprisoned in Hotwar (jail), and your mind in Charwaha Vidyalaya (cattle grazers’ school).”

Bihar minister Ashok Chaudhary condemned the remark as an “attack on Bihar’s dignity,” pointing out that Prasad has seven daughters and numerous women leaders in his party. “Using such language is a sign of political bankruptcy. He should apologise to the women of the country,” Chaudhary said. JD(U) MP and Union Minister Rajeev Ranjan dismissed Prasad’s mockery, asserting, “Nitish Kumar doesn’t need validation from Lalu Yadav. The two are incomparable.” . Nitish Kumar will set out on his Mahila Samvad Yatra from December 15. This initiative aims to directly interact with women across Bihar, assessing their concerns and reviewing government initiatives. This effort is part of Kumar’s Saat Nischay programme, which focuses on development and social welfare, particularly for women.