'Miffed' Brinda Karat wants 'rule book' for politicians after Kamat's 'sexist trash' on Irani

Lashing out at Congress leader Gurudas Kamat's statement on Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani, CPI(M) member Brinda Karat has called for the introduction of a 'code of conduct' that will prevent politicians from talking 'sexist trash'.

Karat said, "I strongly condemn Gurudas Kamat's statement. He is so senior both in age and in his political experience."

While stressing on the importance of positive criticism, Karat said, "If you want to criticise somebody, talk politics, talk policies. How can you talk this sexist trash and think you can get away with it?"

She pointed out that Kamat was a 'serial offender' as many others in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) also are and lauded National Commission for Women's (NCW) decision to shirtfront Kamat on the offensive remarks made by him against Irani.

"Therefore, again and again, we've been demanding a code of conduct for all these men in public office, in public positions and in party positions," Karat told ANI.

On Thursday, Kamat had referred to Irani as a 'poncha lagane wali' (one who mops floors), while attacking her credentials on holding the education portfolio.

The NCW served a showcause notice to Kamat, asking him to reply within a week about his comments on Irani.