BJP MP Rama Devi, who was on the receiving end of sexist remarks from Samajwadi Party MP Mohd Azam Khan in Parliament on Thursday, 25 July, has reacted strongly to the incident and has demanded an apology from him.
"He has never respected women, we all know what he had said about Jaya Prada. He has no right to stay in the Lok Sabha, I will request the Speaker to dismiss him. Azam Khan must apologise," Rama Devi said, according to ANI.
SP leader, Akhilesh Yadav also spoke about the incident, saying that he would take his words back if BJP MPs did the same. “If any unparliamentary words were used yesterday...if BJP MPs take back their words and if I have used any unparlimentary words, I will also take them back,” he said, according to ANI.
BSP supremo Mayawati tweeted about Khan’s comments, saying that the kind of language used by him hurt the dignity of women and was highly condemnable. She also called for him to apologise not only to the Parliament but also to all women.
Remarks Against Rama Devi in LS
High drama had ensued in Lok Sabha on Thursday when Khan made certain objectionable remarks against Devi, who was presiding over the proceedings.
During the debate on the Triple Talaq Bill in Lok Sabha, Devi had asked Khan to address the chair and not to look at other members. Khan responded to this by making some sexist remarks commenting on her looks.
Rama Devi replied saying that Khan must expunge his remarks. However, Khan attempted to clarify his comments saying, “You are very respected, you are like my sister.”
Khan’s remarks were expunged from records later.
Demands for Azam Khan to Apologise
The incident infuriated Union ministers Ravi Shankar Prasad and Arjun Ram Meghwal who urged the Chair to ask Khan to apologise.
However, SP chief Akhilesh Yadav rose to defend Khan. Meanwhile, Speaker Om Birla took over the proceedings.
As he was listening to both sides, Danish Ali (BSP) walked out saying he too was not allowed to speak. Khan joined him in the walkout, saying he cannot speak when he was being insulted.
Later, members of SP and BSP walked out of the proceedings.
(With inputs from PTI and ANI.)
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