NDA protests AIIA chief Rashidi's 'misogynistic' remark against Dimple Yadav

The Members of Parliament from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Monday staged a protest outside Parliament, denouncing what they described as a “derogatory and misogynistic” comment made by All India Imam Association (AIIA) president Maulana Sajid Rashidi against Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav.

Rashidi had, during a TV debate, criticised Dimple Yadav for appearing in public without covering her head, accompanying his critique with an allegedly offensive remark that sparked national outrage.

The NDA MPs, both men and women holding placards, gathered outside Parliament before the session and raised slogans demanding accountability and action.

BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari condemned the remark and slammed the Samajwadi Party leadership for its silence.

“It is truly a matter of deep sorrow and pain that, for the sake of their vote bank, Akhilesh Yadav and the entire Samajwadi Party remain silent on the obscene remark made by Maulana Rashidi against Dimple Yadav,” Bhandari said. He also called out Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra for their silence, despite their public advocacy of women’s rights and social harmony.

Meanwhile, the Lucknow Police have registered an FIR against Maulana Sajid Rashidi for his alleged controversial remarks. The complaint, lodged by SP leader Pravesh Yadav from Gomtinagar, accuses the cleric of making statements that not only demeaned the dignity of a woman but also threatened to disturb communal harmony.

“This has not only hurt the dignity of a woman, but every woman in society is affected by such a comment. Such indecent and anti-women remarks made from a public platform like a TV channel can disrupt social harmony,” the SP leader said in his complaint.

The FIR was registered under sections 79 (outraging modesty of women), 196 (promoting enmity between groups), 295A (outraging religious feelings, etc.), and 352 (assault or criminal force to deter a public servant from discharge of his duty), of the BNS along with Section 67 of the Information Technology Act.