Andhra minister wades into controversy, asks why women need to roam at midnight
Andhra Pradesh Congress chief Botsa Satyanarayana stirred a controversy by questioning the need for women to roam in streets at midnight. He later retracted his words.
In the backdrop of the Delhi gang-rape case, Andhra Pradesh Congress Committee President Botsa Satyanarayana on Monday stirred a controversy by questioning the need for women to roam in streets at midnight.
"Do we roam in streets at midnight as we got Independence at midnight ? It would have been better if the girl did not travel by a private bus at that time," the PCC President, who is also the state transport minister, told reporters in Hyderabad.
However, realising the possible fallout of his remarks, Satyanarayana re-convened a press conference and retracted his words.
"As a father myself, I only tried to express my anguish," he clarified.
"What happened was very unfortunate and I strongly condemn it," he said.
He also expressed his regret for having hurt the feelings of women and said the government should ensure safety and security of all.