A controversial statement by Congress MLA Phool Singh Baraiya has triggered a major political storm in Madhya Pradesh, with the Bharatiya Janata Party strongly condemning his remarks as an alarming trivialisation of rape and an insult to women and marginalised communities.
The controversy erupted after a video of Baraiya surfaced in which he linked incidents of sexual violence to caste hierarchies and religious interpretations. In the video, the MLA claimed that women from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Other Backward Classes are more frequently targeted due to what he described as distorted beliefs rooted in ancient religious texts.
Baraiya went on to suggest that sexual crimes could occur due to momentary distraction caused by physical appearance, making remarks that included references to gang rape and crimes against infants. He also claimed that perpetrators believe sexual relations with women from certain castes bring spiritual merit, allegedly equating such acts with religious pilgrimages.
The MLA cited a text he referred to as Rudrayamal Tantra, alleging that it promotes such beliefs. His comments have drawn widespread criticism for appearing to justify sexual violence through caste-based and religious explanations.
When questioned by the media, Baraiya did not retract his statements. Instead, he claimed his remarks were misunderstood or taken out of context and asserted that his views were based on extensive personal research, including visits to libraries and consultations with people across different regions. He denied making any indecent remarks and said he was speaking in support of women.
The BJP launched a sharp attack on the Congress leadership over the issue. Madhya Pradesh BJP media in-charge Ashish Usha Agarwal said the remarks reflected a deeper problem within the Congress party. He also questioned the silence of senior Congress leaders and accused the party of harbouring a distorted mindset towards women and SC-ST communities.
Calling the comments an insult to women, BJP leaders said such statements could not be justified under any circumstances and demanded accountability from the Congress.

BJP slams Phool Singh Baraiya for caste-linked comments on sexual violence

Congress MLA Sparks Outrage Over Rape Remarks

BJP slams Phool Singh Baraiya for caste-linked comments on sexual violence

January 17, 2026 | 10:51 IST