Belagavi: Senior Congress legislator and former Speaker K.R. Ramesh Kumar has tendered an apology in the House following his objectionable remark that went viral and leaders across the party line condemned the same.

‘When rape is inevitable lie down and enjoy,' the statement of the former Speaker on the floor of the House has sparked controversy. Women legislators and women activists have condemned the statement. Soon after House assembled on Friday, Mr. Ramesh Kumar has voluntarily given a statement seeking an apology for his remarks and assured that in future he will be cautious while making a statement.

“My intention was not to hurt anyone, if anyone hurt by my statement, I will seek apology. I have the highest respect towards women. I have no intention to bring disrepute to women. I have no regret to seek apology for my statement. During a discussion on flood situation in the state, Speaker has drawn my attention on the issue, I quoted the popular adage. I do request all members to put an end to this discussion”, Mr. Ramesh Kumar said.

Moreover, Mr. Kumar has tweeted on Thursday night, seeking apology for his statement “I would like to express my sincere apologies to everyone for the indifferent and negligent comment I made in today’s assembly about “Rape!” My intention was not to trivialize or make light of the heinous crime, but an off the cuff remark! I will choose my words carefully henceforth!”.

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Even KPCC in charge of Karnataka Randeep Singh Surjewala also condemned the statement of his party legislator, he tweeted that “Congress Party disapproves the exchange of highly objectionable & insensitive banter between Karnataka Assembly Speaker & Sr. Congress MLA in the House. Speaker as custodian & Sr legislators are expected to be role models & should desist from such unacceptable behaviour”.

When Mr. Ramesh Kumar makes such a statement, Speaker Vishveshwara Hegde Kageri laughs at him, and proceeds for further agenda.

It may be recalled that on Thursday, opposition leaders have initiated the debate on floods in the state under rule 69. Speaker Mr. Kageri has expressed his helplessness saying, "If all members wanted to speak, I have the responsibility to conduct the House. But this House belongs to yours (members)' my condition is like enjoy the situation [no other option left], what you say Ramesh Kumar”, Mr. Kageri sought the reaction of Mr. Ramesh Kumar.

Mr Ramesh Kumar stood up and made a ‘rape… ’statement. But it sparked controversy at the national level causing embarrassment to the Congress.