Maha: Jay Pawar slams Congress over ‘gungi gudiya’ remark

Mumbai, Aug 4 (SocialNews.XYZ) Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar’s son Jay Pawar on Tuesday strongly criticised the Congress party for its “Gungi Gudiya” remarks on his mother, saying the language used was not merely criticism directed at an individual, but a direct and condemnable assault on the honour of every woman who builds a respected place in society through loyalty, hard work, public service, and merit.

In his post on social media, Jay Pawar said that Hon’ble Sunetra Pawar is Maharashtra’s first woman Deputy Chief Minister. He noted that political differences may exist; however, language that demeans or disrespects the honour, dignity, and personality of women can never be accepted in any civilised democracy. He added that politics is about thoughts, policies, performance, and public trust, not words that insult women.

He further stated that victories and defeats happen in politics, and power changes hands; but the dignity of women is superior to any party, leader, or political struggle. Every statement that undermines that dignity, he said, is not only condemnable but also a stain on democratic culture.

Senior NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal strongly condemned the “Gungi Gudiya” reference made against Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar on Congress’s social media handle. Terming the remark inappropriate and unbecoming, he said the Congress party should uphold respect for women.

Speaking to the media, Bhujbal recalled that when Indira Gandhi became the Congress President and subsequently the Prime Minister, her political opponents had also dubbed her “Gungi Gudiya.” However, she went on to prove her effective leadership of the nation through her achievements. He emphasised that sarcastic labels do not evaluate anyone’s true worth, as merit and work ultimately prevail. Bhujbal further criticised Congress, pointing out that while LoP Rahul Gandhi and other party leaders frequently take a stand on respecting women, making such remarks about Maharashtra’s woman Deputy Chief Minister was highly deplorable.

Addressing questions regarding NCP workers confronting Congress office bearers, Bhujbal said the workers had only registered their protest. Refuting allegations of any violent incident, he asked whether there had been any clash or vandalism, or if stones were pelted or window panes broken. Responding to advice offered to the NCP by Congress State Unit President Harshwardhan Sapkal, he retorted that the party did not need lessons on when to take to the streets, adding that their entire political life had been built on street struggles. He also expressed confidence that Sunetra Pawar would prove her mettle through her performance in the future.

Former NCP minister Nawab Malik said that respect for women is an issue beyond politics. Using derogatory language like “mute doll” against a female leader, he said, is an insult to every woman. Differences of opinion may exist, but disrespect towards women will never be acceptable. He demanded that the Maharashtra Congress apologise.

NCP MLA Rohit Pawar stated that the leader should have been called out on the spot, which unfortunately did not happen. He added that if people in Ajit Pawar’s party felt that calling someone a “Gungi Gudiya” was wrong, they were not mistaken, noting that Indira Gandhi was also once called “Gungi Gudiya.”

Speaking to journalists regarding the rising crime rate in Beed, Rohit Pawar criticised how a local taluka-level leader rudely silenced a journalist as if they were goons themselves. He alleged that most goons in Beed are known to them, pointing out that while one major goon is currently in jail, intimidation was used yesterday through Munde.

He further remarked that many people are accustomed to Ajitdada’s style, noting that Ajit Pawar used to present positions aggressively and speak out boldly. If injustice occurred, he would silence even the biggest leaders. But he said that if the same expectation was held from Sunetra Kaki (aunt), it would never be fulfilled, because no one can replace Ajitdada.

He noted that in those days, when Indira Gandhi used to accompany Nehruji, she would remain quiet and observe. Writers at the time labelled her “Gungi Gudiya,” and some referenced it in speeches. But when the responsibility of the Prime Minister’s office fell upon Indira Gandhi, from that day onward, among all who served as Prime Minister, her performance was second only to Nehru. Many came after Indira Gandhi, he said, and therefore the comparison has both positive and negative sides.

Source: IANS