Controversy Erupts in Congress Over Incident Involving Female MP
Incident Sparks Debate Within Congress Party
A recent incident involving two Congress MPs has ignited controversy within the party. A video surfaced on social media showing Shyam Kumar Barve, a Congress MP, striking the cheek of fellow MP Pratibha Dhanorkar while on a bus heading to the 'Vote Save, Country Save' rally in Delhi on November 1. The footage, lasting about ten seconds, captures several Congress MPs seated on the bus, with Barve appearing to hit Dhanorkar, who initially does not react but later looks at him.
Following the video's circulation, some party officials have reportedly sent emails to senior leaders, including Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi, and General Secretary KC Venugopal, demanding disciplinary action. The complaint also reached the party's Maharashtra in-charge, Sirivella Prasad, alleging that such behavior towards a female MP could tarnish the party's image. The letter emphasized the need to maintain organizational discipline and respect for women leaders.
In response to the growing controversy, Pratibha Dhanorkar defended Barve, describing him as an older brother and asserting that the incident was merely a playful exchange. She criticized the reports as unnecessary attempts to escalate the situation and questioned the identity of the complainant and the legitimacy of their claims, stating that it is inappropriate to defame a female MP without knowing the full truth.
Similarly, Shyam Kumar Barve clarified that Dhanorkar is like a younger sister to him and that their interaction was light-hearted. He accused opponents of fabricating a negative narrative to discredit the movement and questioned the authenticity of the complaints sent via email, claiming they were submitted deceitfully.
While some party officials are calling for disciplinary measures, both MPs maintain that the incident was a harmless joke. Dhanorkar has stated that she has not filed any complaints. As of now, there has been no official confirmation of any disciplinary action from the Congress leadership, leaving everyone awaiting the next steps from the party high command.