Ramesh Bidhuri, the BJP MLA candidate from Kalkaji, has stirred up controversy with a statement comparing the smoothness of his constituency's roads, should he win, to Priyanka Gandhi’s cheeks. The remark has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters, with many deeming it sexist and disrespectful. Speaking to India Today TV, Bidhuri confirmed making the comment and attempted to justify it by drawing a parallel to a similar statement made by former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav, who once famously said he would make Bihar's roads as smooth as Hema Malini's cheeks.
Bidhuri appeared unapologetic, stating, "If today they [Congress] feel offended by my statement, then what about Hema Malini? She is a renowned heroine who has brought glory to India through her films. If Lalu's statement was wrong, then mine should also be considered wrong. Why was there no outrage then?" By framing his comment as a continuation of a precedent, he seemed to deflect responsibility for the backlash.
However, the controversy deepened when Bidhuri, responding to Congress's criticism and accusations of sexism, added, "Isn't Hema Malini a woman? She is far superior to Priyanka Gandhi when it comes to achievements in life. Her contributions to Indian cinema and society are unmatched." This attempt to elevate Hema Malini’s stature while downplaying Priyanka Gandhi's role in Indian politics was seen as an effort to dilute the backlash but ended up adding more fuel to the fire.
The Congress party strongly condemned Bidhuri's remarks, with party leaders accusing him of reducing women’s identities to their physical appearances. Spokespersons highlighted the sexism inherent in such comments and questioned the BJP's commitment to respecting women in politics. "This is not just a statement against Priyanka Gandhi; it is an insult to every woman in India," said a Congress representative. The party has demanded an apology and called on the BJP to take disciplinary action against Bidhuri.
Critics from outside the political sphere also weighed in, pointing out that such remarks reflect the deeply ingrained sexism in Indian politics. "By comparing roads to women’s physical attributes, leaders trivialize the importance of infrastructure development while simultaneously perpetuating stereotypes that objectify women," said a prominent sociologist.
The BJP, however, defended Bidhuri, arguing that his statement was being exaggerated for political mileage. Some party leaders dismissed the controversy as an attempt by the Congress to distract from larger issues, while others doubled down, claiming that the comment was harmless and rooted in a humorous context. "People need to stop being overly sensitive and focus on real issues," said a BJP supporter.
This incident has ignited a broader conversation about the language and tone used in political campaigns, particularly with regard to women. Observers have noted that while political discourse in India has always been combative, the growing trend of personal and sexist comments is concerning. "Such remarks erode public trust in leaders and divert attention from pressing governance matters," said a political analyst.
As Kalkaji gears up for the elections, the controversy surrounding Bidhuri's statement has put him in the spotlight, with voters divided on the issue. While some believe the comment was made in jest and is being blown out of proportion, others feel it reflects a deeper problem of disrespect toward women in public life. Whether this incident will impact Bidhuri's electoral chances remains uncertain, but it has undoubtedly raised questions about the standards of political discourse and the need for greater accountability in how leaders communicate.
