Corporator draws flak for comment on women’s way of dressing

Mumbai, Aug 28 (PTI) A Congress Corporator has stokeda controversy by reportedly blaming dressing style of womenfrom the north-east for the crimes taking place against themin the metropolis. As his comments drew condemnation on social media andinvited admonition from his party, the Corporator, BrianMiranda, claimed his remark was misunderstood and clarified hedid not intend to hurt anybody’s sentiments. The Corporator from suburban Kalina reportedly said onFriday it was because of the way north-eastern women dressthat crimes were taking place in the city, especially the areahe represents in the civic body. Miranda made the comment following the allegedmolestation of a 19-year-old Manipuri girl in suburbanSantacruz last week. "Such crimes take place because some Manipuri girls donot dress properly," Miranda had reportedly said. However, after drawing flak on social media and beingreprimanded by city Congress unit, Miranda today clarified hehad no intention to hurt anyone’s sentiments. "I never intended to say so and my comment wasmisunderstood. Irrespective of whether from any part of thecountry, they must respect the Hindustani culture and thiswould serve the utmost interest of our country. I have immenserespect for all castes, creed and races," the Corporator said. Miranda said senior Congress leaders in Mumbai advisedhim to refrain from making such comments and added he wouldpay heed to their counsel. Meanwhile, a senior officer at Vakola police station,which has jurisdiction in the area where the molestationincident took place, said, "We have taken all measures tocontrol crime." PTI APM GK RSYAYPJMF