The issue was raised by Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad who said though his party had political differences with the BSP, it will not allow any such remark to be made against a woman, who is also a leader of a political party and has been a four-time Chief Minister.
He said the use of words by the BJP leader only reflected his mindset and a case should be registered against him under laws on atrocities against SCs/STs.
Jaitley on his part said he was not aware of the incident till Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi apprised him few minutes back.
"It is not right and I condemn the use of such words and I will look into this matter. I express personal regrets. I associate our dignity with yours and stand with you," Jaitley said.
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Mayawati's responded in anguish saying "I did not marry and considered the entire country's oppressed as my family. I have always followed my mentor Kanshi Ram's advice to take (donation) from the underprivileged and not industrialists," she said, adding that the BJP was perturbed by the huge support her party was getting in Uttar Pradesh.
Demanding the arrest of the BJP leader, she warned the government that she will not be responsible if people hit the streets over the issue.
The controversy came at a time when the opposition was trying to corner the government over the beating up of four Dalit men in Gujarat for skinning a dead cow, with the House being repeatedly adjourned during the day.
Mayawati also reminded members that though her political
fight was very sharp, she has never used foul language against her opponents.
Leaders from various political parties condemned the remarks. One of the most forceful one was Renuka Choudhry who spoke in anger.
"An incident has happened again," she said as she took on the BJP and the Centre over the issue. She said women MPs "don't leave the house and come to the House for entertainment of these people".
Pointing to the treasury benches, she said that "mere lip service won't do and the person who has made the statement should be made an example of."
TMC leader Derek O'Brien too condemned the incident and said lady members from the treasury benches should rise and condemn the remarks. But the request that did not bear any fruit.