Independent MP Pappu Yadav from Bihar’s Purnia has sparked significant controversy with his remarks regarding men’s “predatory” gaze towards women, particularly in the realm of politics. Yadav’s comments were made during discussions on the 131st Constitutional (Amendment) Bill, 2026, which failed to pass in the Lok Sabha and has consequently been leveraged by the ruling party to label the opposition as “anti-women.”
“If the issue of women’s dignity is raised in the Lok Sabha, it becomes a subject of mockery. In India, while women are often revered as goddesses, they fail to receive genuine respect. This is a failure of the system and society,” Yadav stated. He further exclaimed, “Who is accountable for domestic violence? Who perceives women with predatory intent, from America to India? Politicians. Without gaining access to a politician’s private space, 90% of women cannot even enter politics. A culture of exploiting women has taken root.”
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has demanded an apology from Yadav, calling his statements “shocking.” BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla remarked, “This is a shocking statement. At a time when the nation is pushing for women empowerment, see what a Congress-supported MP is saying! This controversial remark about women in politics reflects their mindset.”
In response to Yadav’s comments, the Bihar State Women’s Commission has sought clarification from him. The commission stated, “Taking suo motu cognizance of this matter, the Bihar State Women’s Commission seeks an explanation regarding your offensive statement. It also queries whether a recommendation should be made to the Speaker of the Lok Sabha for cancellation of your membership.”
The commission further added, “In a video circulating on social media, you made an objectionable statement about women in the political sphere, implying that women can only enter politics by sharing a bed with politicians, which undermines their self-respect and social dignity.”
These developments come as Prime Minister Narendra Modi criticized the opposition for not backing the 131st Constitutional (Amendment) Bill, which aims to increase reservations for women after delimitation. He accused parties like Congress, DMK, TMC, and SP of being anti-women.
