'I apologize if anyone was offended': Ramesh Bidhuri retracts comments on 'cheeks'
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New Delhi, Jan 5 (NationPress) Ramesh Bidhuri, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) candidate from Kalkaji Assembly constituency in Delhi, on Sunday retracted his comments regarding Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi's cheeks, stating that his aim was never to hurt anyone.
Bidhuri's statement comparing 'roads to Priyanka Gandhi's cheeks' created a significant uproar, especially within Congress circles, which expressed their outrage and dismay over what they deemed an 'offensive' remark from the BJP leader.
In a clarification made amidst the controversy surrounding his statement, Bidhuri explained that his comments were made in reference to former Bihar chief minister Lalu Yadav and were not aimed at anyone in particular.
He mentioned that similar remarks had been made previously without any backlash from the Congress party, referencing Lalu's disparaging comments about Hema Malini.
"Just because Priyanka Gandhi hails from a VIP background, she is treated differently. Hema Malini, who comes from a more common background, also deserves respect. Nevertheless, if my comment has hurt anyone, I sincerely apologize and retract my statement," Bidhuri told reporters.
Earlier that day, Bidhuri's comments prompted strong reactions from the Congress party. Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate slammed the BJP as an "anti-woman party" and described his remarks as "shameful" and indicative of an "ugly mindset".
She insisted that the BJP leadership should extend an apology to Priyanka Gandhi.
This controversy emerged from Bidhuri's recent statements regarding Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, where he claimed he would ensure the "roads in the constituency are as smooth as Priyanka Gandhi's cheeks" if he wins the upcoming Assembly elections.
The contentious exchange between Congress and BJP regarding his comments underscores the escalating tensions as campaigning ramps up ahead of the Assembly elections.
