New Delhi: On Wednesday, a group of women Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) formally raised a complaint with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. The essence of their grievance was centred around an alleged incident where Rahul Gandhi, a Congress MP, made a “flying kiss” gesture in the house. They argue that such an act not disrespected women MPs but also called for disciplinary action.
The official letter, supported by Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje and other female MPs, specifically mentioned Gandhi’s conduct as “indecent.” They emphasized that this particular gesture was directed towards Smriti Irani, another MP, while she was delivering her speech in the House.
The letter further explained, “Such actions have damaged the reputation of members and undermined the dignity of this House.”
During an interview with a news agency, Shobha Karandlaje expressed her dissatisfaction. Stressed that such behaviour was unprecedented and unbecoming for an MP in the House. “The gesture was clearly intended for women MPs, which’s completely unacceptable.”We have therefore approached the Speaker urging action against Mr Gandhi.”
Darshana Jardosh, another BJP MP and Union Minister, expressed her views stating that “Actions like Rahul Gandhis ‘flying kiss go against our values. We stand firmly against allowing behaviors within the Parliaments corridors.”
Interestingly this is not the time Rahul Gandhi has made gestures in parliament. He was previously in the limelight for a hug and wink during a no-confidence motion against the Modi government in 2018.