Congress Protests Alleged Sexist Remark by BJP MLA, Seeks Police Action
Bengaluru: Senior Congress leader S. Manohar on Thursday led a protest demonstration in Basaveshwaranagar and submitted a formal memorandum to the local police, demanding strict legal action against BJP MLA S. Suresh Kumar for an allegedly derogatory and sexist remark made during the Karnataka Legislative Assembly session on January 23, 2026.
According to the complaint, Suresh Kumar, the Rajajinagar MLA, made an offensive comment about the birth of Women and Child Development Minister Byrathi Suresh while speaking to him on the floor of the House. The remark, which allegedly suggested an abnormal birth, has been described by the Congress as “deeply insulting, unparliamentary and an affront to the dignity of women.”
Addressing protesters, Manohar strongly condemned the statement, calling it “reprehensible and unacceptable in a constitutional democracy.” He said, “This is not merely an insult to a sitting minister but an attack on the dignity of every woman in society. Such language reflects a dangerous mindset that must be confronted and punished.”
The memorandum, submitted to the Basaveshwaranagar Police Inspector by the Bengaluru West District Congress Committee, urges the police to invoke appropriate legal provisions against the legislator. The complainants stressed that Suresh Kumar, being a senior legislator and a legal expert, was fully aware of the law and yet chose to violate its spirit by making a statement that demeans women.
Media Updates: +91-93531 21474 [WhatsApp] | indianowme@gmail.com
The Congress has also enclosed audio and video recordings of the alleged remark as evidence, demanding swift and impartial investigation. Party leaders asserted that tolerance towards such statements would normalize misogyny in public discourse.
Appreciating those who have stepped forward to seek accountability, Manohar said the protest was aimed at upholding constitutional values and protecting women’s dignity. “Silence would mean complicity. We will continue to seek justice until exemplary action is taken,” he said.
The incident has reignited debate over decorum in legislative proceedings, with growing calls for zero tolerance towards sexist and demeaning remarks by elected representatives.
