NCW issues notice to BJP's Sadhana Singh over 'extremely offensive' remarks against Mayawati

Amid a raging political controversy, the National Commission for Women on Monday issued a notice to BJP MLA Sadhana Singh and sought an explanation for making "extremely offensive and unethical" remarks against BSP chief Mayawati.

Singh was severely criticised by the BJP allies and the opposition leaders for calling BSP supremo Mayawati a "blot on womankind" and "worse than a transgender".

The Mughalsarai MLA made the controversial remarks at a rally on Saturday while referring to the infamous incident when Mayawati was assaulted by Samajwadi Party workers at a Lucknow guest house in 1995.

Taking suo motu cognisance, the NCW said the remarks made are "extremely offensive, unethical and shows disrespect towards the dignity and respect of women in general".

"The Commission strongly condemns such irresponsible and disparaging views of persons holding responsible positions. In view of the above, you are hereby required to provide a satisfactory explanation to the Commission on the matter on receipt of this notice," NCW Under Secretary Barnali Shome said.

Singh's comments drew criticism across the party lines with Union minister and Republican Party of India (RPI) president Ramdas Athawale said such personal comments should not be made. RPI is also a constituent of BJP-led NDA.

Akhilesh Yadav, Samajwadi Party president, said the language being used by ruling party leaders is the result of their frustration.

"Since the BJP did nothing during its tenure, how will its leaders talk about work...now that the elections are nearing, there will be a lot of more things as well," he said.

"She has made comments against SP too and it can been seen online and we will also complain against her to show what language has been used," he told reporters in Lucknow.

Athawale said,"I do not agree with the comments made against Mayawati. Mayawati is a strong Dalit leader and a good administrator. Such comments should nt have been made."