Mahua Moitra, the Trinamool Congress politician and Krishnanagar MP, was the target of a formal complaint (FIR) lodged on Sunday by the Delhi Police IFSO section for her ‘crude’ statements directed at NCW chief Rekha Sharma. Moitra is accused of violating Section 79 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita (BNS), which addresses actions meant to offend a woman’s modesty.
Allegations and Legal Action
Following Moitra’s comments, the NCW demanded that a FIR be filed against her immediately. On July 4, Moitra posted a remark on a social media video featuring Sharma at the Uttar Pradesh Hathras stampede scene. Moitra remarked, referring to a man strolling behind Sharma while holding an umbrella, “She is too busy holding up her boss’s pajamas.” Later, Moitra removed the post.
NCW takes suo moto cognizance of derogatory remarks by MP Mahua Moitra against Chairperson Rekha Sharma @sharmarekha. These remarks violate women’s dignity and attract Section 79 of Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023. NCW strongly condemns and demands swift action and has written a… pic.twitter.com/8vm2ASnD6I
— NCW (@NCWIndia) July 5, 2024
The offensive language is a breach of a woman’s right to dignity and is abhorrent. The NCW stated in a post on X that “The Commission noted that this remark attracts Section 79 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, 2023”. “Moita should be the subject of a formal police report, and within three days, the Commission should receive a comprehensive action report,” the NCW stated.
Moitra’s Reaction to the FIR
Moitra commented on NCW’s article: “Come on Delhi Police, please act on these suo moto orders right now. I’m in Nadia in case you need me to conduct a hasty arrest within the next three days. I’m Able to Hold My Own Parasol.”
Another tweet from Moitra included purported screenshots of “crude” posts from Rekha Sharma’s account. According to Moitra, “Also Delhi Police, while you’re at it, can you please register an FIR against another serial offender under your new Act”.
Conclusion
The FIR against Mahua Moitra highlights the tension between political figures and regulatory bodies. While Moitra’s comments have sparked outrage and led to legal action under Section 79 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, her defiant response underscores the ongoing debate about freedom of speech and accountability. The unfolding situation emphasizes the need for respectful discourse and adherence to legal standards in political dialogue.