Row escalates: BSWC chief warns Pappu of defamation case

Patna: In a strongly worded response, Apsara, chairperson of the Bihar State Women’s Commission (BSWC), has condemned Purnia MP Rajesh Ranjan aka Pappu Yadav for his alleged derogatory remarks on women in politics and his open defiance of the Commission.Speaking to reporters, Apsara said: “Yadav has challenged the authority of the BSWC. This is highly condemnable and reflects utter disrespect towards a constitutional institution working for the protection and dignity of women.”The BSWC, taking suo motu cognisance of the viral video, after the MP allegedly made objectionable comments against women entering politics, issued a formal notice to the MP on Tuesday, demanding an explanation within three days.Instead of replying to the notice, Yadav reportedly challenged the BSWC’s authority on social media and made personal attacks on the chairperson.Reacting strongly, Apsara said she would file a defamation case against Yadav for insulting the chairperson of the BSWC.In an official notice to the MP, Apsara stated: “You have made indecent statements on a private media channel about the constitutional institution of the BSWC and its chairperson. Your display of my photo and your indecent comments have hurt my self-respect and social standing, as well as the dignity of the Commission.”The notice issued on Wednesday directed Yadav to appear before the BSWC and submit his statement along with evidence on April 30.