Madhya Pradesh BJP leaders, including Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, have criticized senior Congress MLA Phool Singh Baraiya for his controversial statement suggesting that certain religious scriptures promote the assault of women from Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities. Baraiya’s remarks, captured in a viral video, implied that attacking women from these communities could bring spiritual benefits equivalent to going on a pilgrimage.
Chief Minister Yadav condemned Baraiya’s comments, emphasizing that as a senior member of the Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly, he should avoid making such contentious statements about any religion or caste. Responding to media queries, Yadav expressed disapproval of Baraiya’s statement and advised him to refrain from such remarks.
In the video, Baraiya did not specify any particular religion but faced backlash for seemingly justifying sexual violence and making caste-based claims. The controversy has led to calls for action within the Congress party, with Chief Minister Yadav urging Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi to remove Baraiya to demonstrate equal treatment of all castes.
