Congress distances itself from leader's 'fat' remarks on Rohit Sharma
What's the story
The Indian National Congress (INC) has distanced itself from the controversy over comments made by its spokesperson, Shama Mohamed, on Team India cricket captain Rohit Sharma.
In a now-deleted social media post, Mohamed called Sharma "fat for a sportsperson" and slammed his captaincy in the Champions Trophy match between India and New Zealand.
INC leader Pawan Khera clarified that these remarks aren't the party's official stance.
Party's advice
Congress advises Mohamed to exercise caution
Khera confirmed Mohamed was asked to delete her controversial posts and advised to be more careful with her words in the future.
"Dr. Shama Mohammed...made certain remarks about a cricketing legend that do not reflect the party's position," Khera said.
"She has been asked to delete the concerned social media posts...and has been advised to exercise greater caution in the future," he added.
Ongoing controversy
Mohamed defends remarks, BJP criticizes Congress
Despite the backlash, Mohamed defended her comments, citing her right to free speech in a democracy. She called her remarks "generic" and was confused over the controversy they sparked.
"It was not body-shaming. I always believed a sports person should be fit, and I felt he was a bit overweight, so I just tweeted about that. I have been attacked for no reason. What is wrong in saying that? It is a democracy," she said.
Backlash
BJP leaders slam Congress party
The incident also drew political criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which accused Congress of disrespecting Sharma.
BJP spokespersons questioned their motives, with Pradeep Bhandari calling it an insult to cricket supporters and Shehzad Poonawalla contrasting Sharma's successful track record with Congress's electoral losses under Rahul Gandhi.
BJP leader Radhika Khera also condemned Mohamed's comments.
"Party that thrives on nepotism is lecturing a self-made champion? Congress should worry about its own sinking dynasty before taking cheap shots!" Khera said.