Mumbai: A Congress Corporator has stoked a controversy by reportedly blaming dressing style of women from the north-east for the crimes taking place against them in the metropolis.
As his comments drew condemnation on social media and invited admonition from his party, the Corporator, Brian Miranda, claimed his remark was misunderstood and clarified he did not intend to hurt anybody’s sentiments.
The Corporator from suburban Kalina reportedly said on Friday it was because of the way north-eastern women dress that crimes were taking place in the city, especially the area he represents in the civic body.
Miranda made the comment following the alleged molestation of a 19-year-old Manipuri girl in suburban Santacruz last week.
“Such crimes take place because some Manipuri girls do not dress properly,” Miranda had reportedly said.
However, after drawing flak on social media and being reprimanded by city Congress unit, Miranda on Sunday clarified he had no intention to hurt anyone’s sentiments.
“I never intended to say so and my comment was misunderstood. Irrespective of whether from any part of the country, they must respect the Hindustani culture and this would serve the utmost interest of our country. I have immense respect for all castes, creed and races,” the Corporator said.
Miranda said senior Congress leaders in Mumbai advised him to refrain from making such comments and added he would pay heed to their counsel.
Meanwhile, a senior officer at Vakola police station, which has jurisdiction in the area where the molestation incident took place, said, “We have taken all measures to control crime.”
– PTI
