Former BJP MP Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur has stirred controversy following her comments at a religious gathering in Bhopal, where she advised parents to take strict actions against daughters who visit the homes of individuals from other religious beliefs. She even suggested that parents should “break the legs” of daughters who do not comply with their values.
Thakur emphasized the need for discipline, stating, “If our daughter attempts to visit a person from a different faith, do not hesitate to take severe measures, including breaking her legs. Those who disregard our values and refuse to heed must be corrected.”
Furthermore, Thakur advocated for physical punishment of daughters by parents, asserting that it is done for their own benefit. She expressed, “If it is necessary to discipline your child for their welfare, do not shy away. Parents discipline their children for a brighter future, not to harm them. When a daughter is born, it brings joy to the family; however, when she marries someone from another faith, their joy turns to sorrow.”
In a viral video on Facebook, Thakur reiterated her stance, advising parents to stand firm and enforce consequences if their daughters disobey and mingle with individuals from different religious backgrounds. She stressed the importance of upholding values and parental authority.
Thakur also urged parents to be more watchful of daughters who defy traditions, disregard parental guidance, lack respect for elders, and show signs of leaving home. She recommended using various methods, including discipline, communication, reassurance, affection, and reprimand, to prevent them from straying.
The remarks made by Thakur at the religious event have sparked criticism and backlash from opposition parties, accusing her of promoting violence and spreading hate. Responding to the controversy, Congress spokesperson Bhupendra Gupta questioned the necessity of such rhetoric, highlighting the limited number of cases resulting in religious conversions in Madhya Pradesh.
The incident has raised concerns and drawn condemnation from various quarters for the inflammatory nature of Thakur’s statements.