New Delhi, Sept 3: An alleged insensitive comment on a woman journalist has landed Karnataka Congress MLA RV Deshpande under fire. Deshpande's comment during a press interaction has sparked a political row.

According to reports, the woman journalist had asked the legislator when the long-neglected Joida taluk would have its hospital, citing the suffering of residents—especially pregnant women—due to the lack of medical facilities.

To this, the MLA said: “When it’s your time (to have a baby), I will get one done for you.”

Soon after, the remark, which was captured on video, quickly went viral on social media, drawing widespread condemnation from journalists, political leaders, and civil society groups.

Many of them also demanded that Deshpande should issue a public apology to the journalist without delay.

“As a senior legislator, Mr Deshpande’s comment is not just inappropriate but also deeply insulting,” a media rights group said in a statement.

“Such remarks demean the profession of journalism and trivialise women's concerns. We expect our elected representatives to uphold dignity and lead by example,” it added.

Women’s rights organizations have also called for accountability and sensitivity training for public officials.

The controversy has reignited public discourse around the urgent need for healthcare infrastructure in Joida taluk, where residents often travel long distances for basic medical services. Activists have launched a #NoHospitalNoVote campaign, urging elected representatives to prioritize healthcare over political rhetoric.

As of now, Deshpande has not issued a public apology or clarification.

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