Madhya Pradesh minister for industries Kailash Vijayvargiya’s sexist remarks and advice to women that they should stay within limits when it comes to wearing clothes or going in for fashion has caused a furore and drawn widespread criticism.
Local and regional television channels in Madhya Pradesh were extensively telecasting on Saturday Mr Vijayviragiya’s remar-ks, which amount to underlining a dress code for women. With reference to the Guwahati molestation incident, the minister pointed out on Saturday that there is a direct link between what women wear and provocation. “Women will command respect and there will be no lawlessness in society if they have character and wear decent clothes,” he said, emphasising that fashion and conduct should be in conformity with Indian culture and tradition.
A cross-section of women and girl students have lashed out at the minister, saying his statement is reflective of his “thinking”. Many girl students, when contacted, said the minister has tried to divert attention from the main issue. Instead of criticising those who indulge in eve-teasing or commit crimes against women, he has tried to issue an advisory for women telling them what kind of clothes they should be wearing.