BJP MLA’s ‘sexist’ remarks in Rajasthan Assembly spark protests by activists

A ruling BJP MLA’s remarks in the Rajasthan Assembly equating the State Budget to the “birth of a boy” have sparked protests by women’s groups, social activists and the Opposition Congress. Civil rights groups have submitted a memorandum to Assembly Speaker Vasudev Devnani demanding action against the legislator.

Bahadur Singh Koli, representing Bharatpur district’s Weir constituency, said during the debate on the Budget earlier this week that the BJP government’s Budget was like the birth of a boy, as it was youth-oriented. “In contrast, the final Budget of [former Chief Minister] Ashok Gehlot was like the birth of a girl,” he said.

“Ours is the birth of a boy, not that of a girl,” Mr. Koli said. He said Mr. Gehlot made populist announcements only in the last Budget. “So, a daughter was born… That is why you are sitting in the Opposition,” he remarked.

While several BJP MLAs were seen laughing during Mr. Koli’s remarks, Leader of Opposition Tika Ram Jully criticised the statement the next day, calling it “discriminatory and inappropriate”. “Gender-based analogies have no place in a serious Budget discussion,” Mr. Jully said, while demanding a clarification by the ruling party.

Criticism from rights groups

Civil rights groups have condemned Mr. Koli’s remarks, saying they were “sexist” and promoted gender inequality. “Such views expressed in the Assembly could send a harmful message to society. A preference for sons and the devaluation of daughters have long been responsible for social issues such as female foeticide, skewed sex ratios and the denial of equal opportunities for women and girls,” said the activists.

A memorandum submitted by the rights groups to the Assembly Speaker urged him to treat the matter with utmost seriousness and exercise his powers to expunge the “unparliamentary and derogatory” remarks from the proceedings. It also demanded that a stern warning be given to Mr. Koli, disciplinary action be initiated against him, and the issue be referred to the Privileges Committee.

The groups that submitted the memorandum on Wednesday included the People’s Union for Civil Liberties, National Federation of Indian Women, Rajasthan University Women’s Association, Mazdoor Kisan Shakti Sangathan, Vishakha Mahila Samiti, and independent activists.