The Chief Election Commissioner, Rajiv Kumar, has strongly condemned the derogatory remarks made against women leaders during the ongoing election campaign. He urged officials to take timely and stern action against such comments by candidates.
Kumar's statement came in the wake of remarks made by political leaders during the Maharashtra state assembly elections. Arvind Sawant, a Member of Parliament from Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray, allegedly referred to Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC as “imported maal”.
Sawant was reported to have said, “Look at her condition. She was in the BJP all her life and now she went to another party. Imported 'maal' doesn’t work here; only original 'maal' does.”
However, Sawant later clarified that he did not mention anyone by name. “I only said that someone who is an outsider will not be able to work here. It’s their habit to create uproar," he said.
The Chief Election Commissioner has directed all officials to ensure that any derogatory comments or remarks by candidates or political leaders that are offensive to the honour and dignity of women, and that violate the Model Code of Conduct (MCC), are met with prompt and severe action.
He further expressed hope that all candidates and party leaders would elevate their rhetoric and conduct themselves in a manner that reflects respect for women, both in their speeches and public interactions.