Sharad Yadav unapologetic over remark on women's complexion

Raking up the issue again, he said he was ready for a debate on the topic

Under attack for sexist remarks, JD(U) leader Sharad Yadav today remained unapologetic for his comments on women's complexion, as he raked it up again saying he was ready for a debate on the issue.

"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 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.

As other MPs joined in, Deputy Chairman P J Kurien said he would not allow a discussion on the issue. "I am not allowing any discussion ... White or dark colour, it is all the same," he said.

The issue figured after Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad rose to dissociate himself from comments made by Yadav last week. "I dissociate myself from those remarks. I completely disassociate and disapprove of the remarks... I appeal to Sharad Yadav to kindly withdraw his comments," he said.