NCW seeks legal action against Moitra for derogatory 'pajamas' remark
What's the story
The National Commission for Women (NCW) has taken suo moto cognizance of a derogatory comment made by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Mahua Moitra against its chairperson, Rekha Sharma. Sharma had gone to Hathras to meet the women who were injured in the tragic stampede incident that claimed over 121 lives. While on her way to the site, videos showed someone holding an umbrella for her. Commenting on the video, Moitra wrote, "She is too busy holding up her boss's pajamas."
Legal proceedings
NCW condemns Moitra's comment, demands strict action
These remarks were condemned as "outrageous and a violation of a woman's right to dignity" by the NCW, which also demanded that an FIR be registered against her. The commission noted that the comment attracts Section 79 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023. This section deals with word, gesture or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman. It has also asked for a detailed action report to be communicated to the commission within three days.
Twitter Post
Check out NCW's post here
The National Commission for Women has taken suo moto cognizance of the derogatory remark made by Ms. Mahua Moitra, Member of Parliament, against Ms. Rekha Sharma, Chairperson, NCW. The crude remarks are outrageous and a violation of a woman's right to dignity. The Commission…
— NCW (@NCWIndia) July 5, 2024
Defiant response
Moitra challenges Delhi Police to act on NCW's orders
Moitra has quickly reacted to the NCW's move, challenging the authorities to act on the suo moto order. "Come on, Delhi Police. Please take action immediately on these Suo Moto orders. I am in Nadia in case you need me in the next 3 days to make a quick arrest. I Can Hold My Own Umbrella," she replied to the NCW's post, referencing Sharma's Hatras incident again.
Political backlash
BJP criticizes Moitra's comment, questions opposition's silence
Earlier, the Bharatiya Janata Party had also criticized Moitra for her comments, with its national spokesperson, Shehzad Poonawalla, calling the comments "extremely indecent, objectionable, and shameful." He further stated that this is the "true face" of the TMC and the opposition parties' Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA). Poonawalla questioned the silence of the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over Moitra's comment, asking if they would call it out.