Senior NCP leader R R Patil stoked controversy when he said an MNS candidate, jailed in connection with a rape case, could have waited for the elections to get over before committing the crime. As criticism mounted, the former home minister tendered an apology.
What were Patil's exact words?
"Today, MNS activists met me and said they would back me (in the elections). When I asked them why, they said their candidate was in jail. I asked as to what good act had he done. They told me that a rape case had been registered against him. If he wanted to contest and become an MLA, he should have committed rape after the elections," said Patil, addressing a rally in Sangli on Friday.
Is he new to controversy?
Patil, who is not new to controversy, drew flak from all sides. BJP leader Shaina NC described the former minister a 'big joke'. "After 26/11, he had made an insensitive comment, saying 'small incidents do happen in big cities'. When Shakti Mills incident (rape of a woman journalist) took place, he said 'should I give protection to all journalists'," she said.
Shaina said that with elections round the corner, Patil was trying to be cocky. "He has absolutely no conscience and no right to be in public life. He should be voted out on October 15 by the people.
What did activists say?
Activist and advocate Abha Singh cited Section 107 (abetment of crime) of the Indian Penal Code to seek registration of a case against the former minister. "Instigation comes under abetment of an offence. An offence should be registered against R R Patil for inciting people to go and rape women," she said.
How did the leader defend himself?
As his remark triggered an outrage, Patil went into damage control, saying it was made in a sarcastic vein against MNS candidate Sudhakar Khade, who has a criminal background. "The candidate had a rape case registered against him in 2007. One more rape case was registered after he filed nomination. Earlier, he had been charged under Arms Act and for molestation," Patil told PTI.
What did he say in his apology?
Clarifying his stand, the NCP leader said, "If you hear my comment fully, you will understand in what context it was made. It was a sarcastic comment. There is no question of insulting women. During my tenure as home minister, I initiated several measures for the safety of women and took a tough stand on rape," he said.
Seeking to put an end to the row, Patil said, "I do not want the issue to drag on. In case, I have hurt anybody's sentiments, I tender an apology."
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