A major political controversy has erupted in Madhya Pradesh after a video surfaced allegedly showing Congress MLA Phool Singh Baraiya making remarks that appeared to link rape with religious scriptures. The comments triggered widespread outrage, sharp political reactions and demands for his suspension and expulsion from the Congress.
The video, reportedly from an interview now circulating widely on social media, was shared by the Bharatiya Janata Party. In it, Baraiya, the Congress legislator from the Bhander Assembly constituency, is heard making controversial claims related to sexual violence against women from Scheduled Caste, Scheduled Tribe and Other Backward Class communities, drawing immediate condemnation across party lines.
In the clip, Baraiya makes remarks linking incidents of rape to interpretations of religious texts, prompting criticism for being misogynistic, casteist and deeply offensive. He also makes disturbing statements while referring to sexual violence against minors, further intensifying the backlash.
Reacting strongly, the BJP termed the comments criminal and unacceptable. Madhya Pradesh BJP media in-charge Ashish Agrawal shared the video on X, saying the remarks reflected a “perverted and criminal mindset” and demanded immediate action from the Congress leadership. He accused the party of remaining silent on what he called an attack on women, Dalits and humanity.
Chief Minister Mohan Yadav also condemned the statements, alleging that the MLA was spreading social hatred. He called for Baraiya’s suspension and expulsion from the Congress, urging the party leadership to take swift and decisive action to send a clear message.
Senior BJP leader Sambit Patra joined the criticism, calling the remarks an insult to humanity and to Sanatan Dharma. He questioned the silence of senior Congress leaders and demanded an official response and action against the MLA.
As of Saturday, the Congress had not issued an official statement on the controversy. Baraiya, who has previously drawn attention for controversial remarks, has also not publicly responded to the backlash over the video.
