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Dehradun: A political storm has erupted in Uttarakhand after Maulana Sajid Rashidi, President of the All-India Imam Association, made controversial remarks about the attire of Samajwadi Party MP Dimple Yadav during a televised debate.
The BJP has condemned the comments as deeply offensive and demanded immediate legal and public action.
BJP president Mahendra Bhatt issued a strongly worded statement
Uttarakhand BJP State President and Rajya Sabha MP Mahendra Bhatt issued a strongly worded statement, calling the Maulana’s remarks an insult to “mother power” and to the dignity of women. “Dimple is the daughter of Devbhoomi. The words used by Maulana are not just vulgar—they are intolerable,” Bhatt said. He accused SP chief Akhilesh Yadav of remaining silent for the sake of vote bank politics, adding that the people of Uttarakhand will not forgive such disrespect.
Maulana Rashidi commented on Dimple Yadav’s attire
The controversy stems from a viral clip of a news channel debate in which Maulana Rashidi commented on Dimple Yadav’s attire during a meeting held at the mosque within the Parliament premises. BJP leaders say the remarks were not only inappropriate for a sitting MP but would be considered criminal if directed at any woman.
No SP leader has condemned the Maulana’s words
Bhatt further criticized the Samajwadi Party for failing to respond to the incident. “It’s unfortunate that no SP leader has condemned the Maulana’s words. Their silence speaks volumes about their priorities,” he said. He urged that strict legal action be taken and that Rashidi issue a public apology.
Dimple Yadav’s Uttarakhand roots
Dimple Yadav, born Dimple Rawat, has deep familial ties to Uttarakhand. Her father, Col. Ram Chandra Singh Rawat (Retd), hails from Almora district, and her family currently resides in Kashipur. As the daughter of a decorated Army officer and a native of the hills, Dimple is often referred to as a daughter of Devbhoomi. Her connection to Uttarakhand has been acknowledged across party lines, and she has previously been considered for key roles in the state’s political landscape.
Dignity of women transcends party lines
Bhatt emphasized that while BJP and SP may have ideological differences, the dignity of women transcends party lines. “We may disagree politically, but when it comes to respecting women—especially those from our soil—we stand united,” he said.
As the issue continues to gain traction on social media and news platforms, pressure is mounting on Rashidi to apologize and on SP leadership to respond. The incident has reignited debates around women’s representation, respect in public discourse, and the role of political parties in defending their own.
