This story is from March 16, 2015

NEW DELHI: Under attack for his recent sexist remarks on skin color of south Indian women, JD(U) chief Sharad Yadav on Monday remained unapologetic and made a sexist ad hominem directly aimed at HRD minister Smriti Irani in Parliament .

Yadav raked up the issue in Parliament on Monday again, saying he was ready for a debate on the issue.

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“What have I said ... ‘saanvli’ (dark complexioned) women are more in number in India, they are more in number the world over. I am ready to debate with anyone on the struggle of (Ram Manohar) Lohia and others for them,” he said in the Rajya Sabha.

As Yadav explained his position on the issue, he was interrupted by both treasury and opposition members including HRD minister Smriti Irani.

“I appeal to the gentleman (Yadav) not to make comments on colour of skin of women in this manner. Very wrong message is going,” she said

This infuriated Yadav, who, in turn, hit out at Irani, saying, “I know what you are.” His comments stunned other leaders and Irani herself.

Earlier Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad raised the issue in the House and asked the JD(U) leader to withdraw his comments.

Prasad said: "Comments were made on south Indian women, I was also mentioned, I remained quiet. I want to keep myself away from that comment."

"I completely disagree with the comment. Ask the member to withdraw the comment," he urged the chair.

Trying to clarify, Yadav said his comments were misinterpreted: "There are more dusky women in India and in the world... I can discuss the issue with anyone, we are in favour of Indian culture."

Deputy chairman PJ Kurien said he would not allow a discussion on the issue.

"White complexion or dark complexion, it is all the same, I am not allowing a discussion on this," Kurien said.

Leader of opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad opined that the issue should not be discussed as it will get more complicated.

Yadav, however, said he was ready to participate in a discussion.

"There has been a long struggle against discrimination based on colour... I am ready to participate in a debate any time," said Yadav.

(With inputs from PTI)

