New Delhi- BJP candidate Ramesh Bidhuri, facing backlash for his "road like Priyanka's cheeks" remark about Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, clarified on Sunday that he meant no offense. However, he refused to apologize and instead, challenged the Congress party to demand an apology from their INDIA bloc ally, Lalu Yadav, for his past comparison of Bihar's roads to Hema Malini's cheeks.

Bidhuri argued that the Congress party's silence on Yadav's statement, made years ago, highlighted their hypocrisy and favoritism towards certain individuals based on their family background. He accused the Congress of prioritizing political drama over genuine concern for women's respect.

"Congress and AAP should first demand an apology from their INDIA bloc ally, Lalu Yadav, for his derogatory remarks against Hema Malini. Just because Priyanka Gandhi comes from a VIP family, she is treated differently. Hema Malini, who comes from a general family, is no less deserving of respect," Bidhuri stated to reporters.

Congress spokesperson Supriya Shrinate condemned Bidhuri's comments, calling them "shameful" and "a reflection of an ugly mindset." She slammed the BJP as an "anti-woman party" and demanded an apology for Priyanka Gandhi Vadra from the BJP leader.

Bidhuri's remarks, made during his campaign for the Kalkaji Assembly constituency, drew sharp criticism from the opposition. This controversy follows another incident in 2023 where Bidhuri made communal comments against former BSP MP Danish Ali in Parliament, sparking widespread outrage. Although the remarks were later expunged, Bidhuri expressed regret.

The heated exchange between the Congress and BJP over Bidhuri's latest statement underscores the escalating tensions as campaigning intensifies ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections.