Madhya Pradesh Urban Development Minister and senior BJP leader Kailash Vijayvargiya sparked widespread controversy after remarks about women’s clothing at a public event on Thursday, June 5, 2025. During his speech, Vijayvargiya said he does not like women or girls who wear revealing clothes, to the extent that he refuses to take selfies with them. A video capturing his comments went viral on social media, triggering backlash from political opponents and activists.

The Remarks and Cultural Context

Addressing the audience, Vijayvargiya shared his views on clothing, contrasting Indian and Western cultural attitudes. He said that in India, women wearing good and pretty clothes with makeup and jewellery are considered beautiful, whereas abroad, wearing less clothing is accepted and even appreciated. He termed this a “foreign way of thinking,” implying it does not align with Indian values.

He further cited a Western proverb that compares a leader’s short speech to a woman’s revealing clothes, which he personally rejects. "There is a saying abroad that a woman wearing less clothing is beautiful, similarly a leader giving a short speech is also very good," Vijayvargiya said. “I do not follow this saying,” he emphasized, highlighting his disapproval.

Selfie Refusal and Views on Women

Vijayvargiya described women as a “form of goddess” and insisted that women should wear “very good clothes.” Reflecting his personal preference, he stated, “I do not like women or girls who wear revealing clothes. When girls come to take selfies with me, I tell them to come wearing good clothes, else I refuse to take photos.”

These remarks drew applause at the event but were met with sharp criticism outside.

Criticism from Opposition and Activists

The comments quickly attracted negative reactions, especially on social media. Vibha Patel, President of Madhya Pradesh Women’s Congress, accused Vijayvargiya of making such statements to seek attention due to isolation within his party. She urged BJP leadership to warn him against repeating misogynistic comments, stating, “You cannot come into the limelight by commenting on women’s clothes. You should change your behaviour.”

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) condemned the remarks as “misogynistic, chauvinistic, and patriarchal,” demanding immediate action. The party called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to clarify if such views reflect BJP’s stance and demanded Vijayvargiya’s resignation. The TMC warned that failure to act would be seen as tacit approval of disparaging women.

Political and Social Implications

Vijayvargiya’s comments highlight ongoing tensions in Indian politics regarding gender, culture, and freedom of expression. His remarks resonate with a segment of conservative opinion but clash with growing calls for women’s autonomy and respect.

The controversy underscores the challenges Indian politicians face balancing traditional cultural values with modern perspectives on gender equality and personal freedoms.

Summary

BJP’s Madhya Pradesh minister Kailash Vijayvargiya’s refusal to take selfies with women in revealing clothes has ignited a storm of criticism from opposition parties and activists. Citing Indian cultural ideals and rejecting a Western proverb, his remarks triggered allegations of misogyny and patriarchy. Opposition parties, notably the Women’s Congress and TMC, have demanded BJP take strict action, reflecting the broader debate on women’s rights and political accountability in India.

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