Women’s careers start in leaders’ beds, says Pappu Yadav:MP’s comment spark outrage, refuses to withdraw statement; women’s panel issues notice

A storm has erupted around Purnia MP Pappu Yadav after his controversial remarks about women in politics triggered widespread condemnation. Speaking during a live social media interaction on Tuesday, he claimed that women cannot enter or succeed in politics without “passing through leaders’ rooms,” adding that 90% of women allegedly rely on such means. The statement drew immediate backlash across political and social circles. Women’s panel issues notice, seeks reply
Taking serious note, the Bihar State Women’s Commission issued a notice asking the MP to respond within three days. The Commission termed the remarks “disgusting” and said they hurt the dignity and social standing of women engaged in public life. It also warned that failure to justify the statement could lead to a recommendation to the Lok Sabha Speaker for cancellation of his membership. MP defends remarks, alleges misrepresentation
Responding to the notice, Yadav said his comments were being distorted. He claimed he was highlighting alleged exploitation in politics rather than targeting women. He maintained that he has been consistently raising his voice against crimes involving women and argued that such issues should ideally be addressed by the Women’s Commission itself. Stands firm, refuses to retract statement
At a press conference on Wednesday, the MP reiterated his stance, insisting he had said nothing wrong. He argued that his words reflected “ground realities” and were not personal opinions. He added that while women are revered as goddesses in society, they often do not receive respect in practice, and exploitation remains widespread. * Statement made during live social media interaction
* Women’s Commission issues notice, seeks reply in three days
* MP refuses to withdraw remarks, calls them factual
* Debate intensifies over sexism in politics Sharp political reactions and personal attack
The controversy has also drawn sharp reactions from political figures. Mokama MLA Anant Singh launched a personal attack, questioning Yadav’s claim and asking him to explain his own family’s political journey. His remarks added a political edge to an already heated debate. Commission questions intent, warns action
The Women’s Commission, in its notice, stated that Yadav’s claim implied that women enter politics by sharing beds with male leaders—an assertion it described as deeply offensive. The panel demanded an explanation for such a statement and asked why action should not be recommended against him. The Commission’s chairperson also questioned whether his claims were based on personal experience or hearsay. Voices of protest grow louder * Congress leader Pratima Das termed the remarks shameful and demanded an apology
* She said such language violates constitutional values and insults women
* Mumtaz Patel called the statement shocking and regressive
* She highlighted India’s record of women leaders, including a woman Prime Minister and Presidents Row intensifies as MP dismisses notice
Escalating the confrontation, Yadav said he had “thrown the notice in the dustbin,” signalling defiance. With criticism mounting and institutional scrutiny deepening, the controversy has evolved into a larger debate on gender bias in politics. Observers say the coming days could determine whether the issue leads to formal action or remains confined to political sparring. ​