A former BJP MLA in Karnataka, Sanjay Patil, has stirred controversy with his remarks targeting Karnataka Women and Child Development Minister Lakshmi Hebbalkar, prompting a heated exchange in the state’s political arena.
During a party workers’ meeting, Patil commented on the rising support for the BJP among women in Karnataka, suggesting that Hebbalkar of the Congress may need an “extra peg” or sleeping pill due to the increasing BJP support in Belagavi, where her son Mrinal is contesting the Lok Sabha elections.
Patil’s remarks drew sharp criticism, especially in light of recent scandals involving Ramesh Jarkiholi, who is also campaigning in Belagavi. Hebbalkar condemned Patil’s comments, questioning the BJP’s respect for women and highlighting the need for genuine respect beyond mere slogans like “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao.”
In response, Hebbalkar emphasized the importance of respecting women and criticized Patil’s comments as disrespectful not only to her but to all women in the state and the nation. She highlighted the contrast between BJP’s rhetoric about Hindu culture and the actual disrespect shown through such remarks.
The political context in Belagavi adds another layer to this controversy, with Mrinal Hebbalkar contesting against BJP candidate and former Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar. Hebbalkar used campaign meetings to remind voters of Shettar’s past political shifts, questioning his allegiance and commitment to the constituency.
The ongoing debate reflects broader concerns about the treatment of women in politics and the use of derogatory language in political discourse. As the election campaign intensifies, such incidents raise questions about the standards of political rhetoric and the values upheld by political parties and their members.
Sources By Agencies
