NCW takes suo moto cognizance of derogatory remarks made by TMC Minister Firhad Hakim about BJP leader

Kolkata: A day after the National Commission for Women (NCW) took suo moto cognizance of the derogatory remarks made by Trinamool Minister and Mayor Firhad Hakim about BJP leader Rekha Patra, a BJP delegation met CEO West Bengal seeking action against Hakim for his comments about Patra. Meanwhile, the National Commission for Women has taken suo moto cognizance of the derogatory remarks.

During his speech in a public rally, Hakim made derogatory comments about Patra. BJP has urged the ECI to immediately censor Hakim for violating the Model Code of Conduct. An alleged sexual assault victim of Sandeshkhali, Rekha Patra was fielded as a BJP candidate from Basirhat in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. She got defeated in the polls by Trinamool Congress’ late Haji Nurul who won the election but passed away recently.

During his speech in a public rally, Hakim had referred to Patra as 'lost item' (“Hara maal”). "As you know in the local language the use of the word 'maal' (item) is in a derogatory, demeaning and abusive context," BJP said in the letter. BJP has urged the ECI to immediately censor Hakim for violating the Model Code of Conduct.


Hakim today made a turn around and said he did not use the derogatory word for Rekha Patra, who is a lady. The words were used to refer to BJP.

The Commission has also directed the Chief Secretary and DGP of West Bengal to take action and submit a detailed report within 3 days.

In its post, NCW wrote, “The National Commission for Women has taken suo moto cognizance of the derogatory remarks made by West Bengal Minister Shri Firhad Hakim against BJP leader Ms. Rekha Patra. The Commission has directed the Chief Secretary and DGP of West Bengal to invoke relevant legal provisions and conduct a fair and time-bound investigation. A detailed report is to be submitted to the Commission within 3 days.”