Bihar Women’s Commission Issues Notice to Pappu Yadav Over Viral Remarks, MP Denies Allegations

Patna, April 2026 : The Bihar State Women’s Commission has issued a notice to Purnea Lok Sabha MP Rajesh Ranjan, popularly known as Pappu Yadav, after a video allegedly showing him making derogatory remarks about women went viral on social media. The Commission took suo motu cognisance of the matter, terming the reported comments “objectionable” and harmful to the dignity of women.

The notice was issued under the direction of Commission Chairperson Apshara, who emphasised that the remarks attributed to the MP were indecent and unacceptable in a democratic society. According to the Commission, the viral video appears to show Yadav making controversial statements suggesting that women’s participation in politics is linked to inappropriate conduct.

In its communication, the Commission stated that such comments undermine the dignity and social standing of women, particularly those engaged in public life. “A video circulated through social media shows a hateful statement made by you regarding women working in the political field. It suggests that women in politics advance by inappropriate means, which deeply hurts their dignity and social prestige,” the notice read.

Taking the matter seriously, the Commission has asked Yadav to submit a detailed explanation within three days of receiving the notice. It also warned that failure to provide a satisfactory response could prompt further action, including a recommendation to the Lok Sabha Speaker for appropriate measures, which may extend to the cancellation of his parliamentary membership.

The development has sparked a political and public debate, with the Commission reiterating that statements undermining women’s contributions to politics are unacceptable and must be addressed firmly.

Responding to the notice, Pappu Yadav strongly denied the allegations, asserting that his remarks had been misinterpreted and taken out of context. He clarified that his statement was not intended to target women but to highlight the challenges and alleged exploitation faced by women in political spaces.

“I have always raised my voice against injustice and crimes against women. My statement was aimed at exposing the exploitation that exists, not at insulting women,” Yadav said, defending his position. He also claimed that he had previously raised similar concerns in Parliament, citing government data, media reports, and references to statements made by senior leaders.

Yadav further alleged that only a portion of his remarks was circulated on social media, leading to a distorted interpretation of his intent. He urged authorities and the public to review the full video before drawing conclusions.

Questioning the Commission’s actions, the MP pointed to several recent incidents in Bihar involving crimes against women, including an alleged rape and murder case in Patna and reports of attempted public assault in Nalanda. He asked whether the Commission had taken adequate steps in addressing such cases.

He also raised concerns about what he described as selective action, arguing that while his statement prompted swift notice, other serious incidents did not receive similar urgency. Referring to past cases such as the Muzaffarpur shelter home incident, Yadav questioned the Commission’s role and effectiveness in ensuring justice for victims.

Expanding his argument, Yadav highlighted that issues related to women’s safety are not confined to Bihar alone, citing incidents from other parts of the country. He stressed the need for a comprehensive and consistent approach to tackling crimes against women.

The MP also criticised sections of the media, accusing them of selectively reporting his remarks without context. He maintained that he is willing to cooperate with any inquiry and stands by his broader message advocating for women’s rights and dignity.

At the same time, Yadav expressed regret if his comments had unintentionally hurt sentiments. “If my words have caused any misunderstanding or hurt, I regret that. But my intention has always been to fight for the rights of women, youth, and the vulnerable,” he said.

The controversy continues to unfold, with the Commission awaiting Yadav’s formal response while public and political reactions remain divided over the issue.