National Commission for Women issues notice to Baba Ramdev

NEW DELHI: The National Commission for Women has issued a notice to yoga guru Baba Ramdev for his 'honeymoon remarks' against Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi that has triggered a major controversy.

Taking a suo-moto congnizance of the media reports, the Commission sent a notice to Ramdev on Monday seeking a explanation for his remarks within three days.

"His remarks hurt the dignity and sentiments of Dalit women. What he said is highly condemnable," said NCW chairperson Mamta Sharma, adding if the Yoga guru fails to reply, he will be summoned by the Commission.

Sharma said that making such remarks and then apologising has become a tradition now. "Seeking apology cannot be a remedy," she said.

Addressing a gathering in Lucknow recently, Ramdev had said, "He (Rahul) goes to houses of Dalits for honeymoon and picnic..."

His remarks sparked off a controversy and drew flak from various quarters, especially from the Congress party and some Dalit activists.

Later Ramdev apologised for his "honeymoon" remark and said he was misinterpreted.

Acting on a complaint, the police has charged Ramdev under Section 171G of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) for making "false statement with intent to affect the result of an election".