Cong. condemns Raj. minister Kalicharan Saraf's 'hollow sensitivity'

Perturbed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and Rajasthan minister Kalicharan Saraf's stance on protection of women against acts of sexual violence, the Congress party on Thursday, while condemning the remark, said the minister's opinion showed his lack of sensitivity and shame.

Speaking to ANI here, Congress leader Tom Vadakkan said it was important for Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje to demand an apology from the minister.

"This is a view that has been expressed by other ministers in Rajasthan. It goes to show the lack of shame and hollow sensitivity of these ministers. The Chief Minister, being a woman herself, must demand an apology," he said.

Echoing similar sentiment, Congress leader Pramod Tiwari asserted that if the minister was unable to ensure safety of women in the state, he should resign immediately.

"The statement made by Kalicharan Saraf reeks of arrogance, ignorance and irresponsibility. When citizens vote for a leader, they expect their protection in return. If the minister cannot ensure this, he must resign," he said.

Earlier in the day, Saraf stirred a controversy with his remark asserting that the government "cannot prevent rape incidences from taking place," adding that "it can only catch hold the culprits."

"If a servant in a Jeweller's home would rape his minor daughter, then what could police do in such situation or what can government do?" Saraf said.

He further said that the government could only take severe action against the accused in such incidents and could provide best medical facility.

"What are we expected to do, to put lock on each and every house? It is very easy to make such statements. The number of crimes are increasing day by day, but what can be done about it," he said.