Bengal minister Akhil Giri comments on President Droupadi's 'look', TMC leader apologises facing backlash

In a 10-odd-second video clip (not verified by India Blooms) which went viral on social media, Giri, the junior minister for correctional homes, said, "They (BJP) said that I am not good-looking. We don't judge anyone by their appearance.

"We respect the office of the President (of India). But how does our President look?"

The minister made the remark in presence of TMC spokesperson Kunal Ghosh.

Slamming Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, BJP IT cell head Amit Malviya tweeted, "Mamata Banerjee has always been anti-Tribals, didn’t support President Murmu for the office and now this. Shameful level of discourse…"

The BJP held a protest rally against Giri, the TMC government and Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata's Central Avenue.

Distancing itself from the comment, the TMC, which boasts on women empowerment in politics, has put up a tweet which reads, "We have the utmost respect for Hon'ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu.

"Our party strongly condemns the unfortunate remarks made by MLA @AkhilGiriAITC and clarifies that we do not condone such statements. In the era of women's empowerment, such misogyny is unacceptable."

Facing backlash from both the Opposition as well as TMC, Giri told a news channel, "I didn't mean to disrespect the President. I respect her. I was being objectified for my look for the last three months.

"I made the remark to counter it with a comparison. I apologise for my remark."