BJP Mahila Morcha sharpens attack on Minister Maharathy

Bhubaneswar: Stepping up its attack against Agriculture Minister Pradeep Maharathy for allegedly making derogatory remarks against women, BJP Mahila Morcha, the saffron party's women wing, today staged demonstration at different places including Bhubaneswar and demanded the minister's resignation.

Members of the Mahila Morcha led by its State President, Prabhati Parida took out a rally from the party's State headquarters in Bhubaneswar and marched up to the Sriya Talkies Chhak. Later they burnt the effigy of Maharathy.

Sources said a meeting of the Mahila Morcha will be held today evening to chalk out the future course of action.

"If Maharathy has made such remarks knowingly, he should be immediately expelled. On the other hand, if that was a mistake, then also, Maharathy should be removed from the Council of Ministers as he has lost his mental balance," Parida added.

In Angul and Kendrapara also, the Mahila Morcha activists staged protests and burnt the minister's effigies today.

BJD's reaction on the matter could not be obtained. However, on Friday, Pramila Mallick, president of the Biju Mahila Janata Dal defended the minister saying he did nothing wrong.

"Maharathy's statements are being manipulated and fabricated. People understand that they (BJP Mahila Morcha) are protesting without any issues," Mallick had said.

The BJP’s women wing on Wednesday staged an agitation in front of Maharathy’s residence in Bhubaneswar. Some of them also attempted to barge into his residence protesting his comments.

Earlier, Maharathy had said that his statement was “misinterpreted” and refused to tender an apology.