Mumbai: A BJP minister in Maharashtra has stoked a controversy by linking daily consumption of fish to having "eyes as beautiful" as those of actor Aishwarya Rai. A video of the sexist remarks by state tribal minister Vijaykumar Gavit, made at a public function in north Maharashtra's Nandurbar district, has gone viral on social media.
While addressing a meeting of fishermen, he emphasized the significance of fish consumption. Gavit had previously faced scrutiny from the Bombay High Court due to a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) accusing him of involvement in a Rs 3,000-crore scam related to the tribal welfare corporation during his tenure as the tribal welfare minister. The high court had appointed a retired judge to investigate the allegations stated in the PIL, and they were found to be valid. Despite this, the BJP extended its welcome to him, incorporating him into its ranks.
"People who consume fish on a daily basis develop smooth skin and their eyes sparkle. If anyone looks at you, the person will get attracted (towards you). Did I tell you about Aishwarya Rai? She lived near the seashore in Mangaluru. She would consume fish daily. Have you seen her eyes? You will also have eyes like her," the minister is heard saying.
"Fish contains some oils, it makes your skin smooth," added the 68-year-old minister, whose daughter Heena Gavit is BJP's Lok Sabha member.
NCP legislator Amol Mitkari said the minister should focus on issues faced by tribals, instead of making such "frivolous" comments.
BJP MLA Nitesh Rane said, "I eat fish daily. My eyes should have become like that (like those of Aishwarya Rai). I will ask Gavit sahib if there is any research on this."
(with PTI inputs)
