MP Congress MLA's Remarks Linking Rape to Beauty and Religious Texts Spark Controversy

Madhya Pradesh Congress MLA Phool Singh Baraiya sparked controversy by linking rape to women's beauty and caste-based religious scriptures, claiming sexual crimes against Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, and OBC women are encouraged by certain texts describing such acts as 'teerth phal' (pilgrimage rewards). His remarks drew widespread condemnation from the BJP and social groups, with calls for his suspension. Baraiya later clarified he quoted a philosopher and said he did not personally agree with the statements. The Samajwadi Party also faced criticism for related comments blaming internet content and alcohol for sexual violence.