Cong corporator sparks row, blames Manipuri women's dress for sex crimes

Mumbai: A Congress corporator on Friday blamed the dressing style of north-eastern women for sex crimes in Mumbai, while commenting on an alleged molestation of a 19-year-old Manipuri woman in suburban Santacruz last week.

“Such crimes take place because some Manipuri girls do not dress properly,” Brian Miranda, an elected member of municipal corporation from Kalina, reportedly said.

The woman from Manipur who works at a spa in the western suburbs was allegedly molested by an unknown person at Santacruz (East) in Kalina on August 19.

Miranda on Sunday clarified on his statement after his comment drew flak on social media and was reprimanded by Mumbai Congress unit.

“I never intended to say so and my comment was misunderstood. Irrespective of whether from any part of the country, they must respect the Hindustani culture and this would serve the utmost interest of our country. I have immense respect for all castes, creed and races,” the corporator said.

Senior Congress leaders asked Miranda to refrain from making such comments.

Meanwhile, the Vakola police have registered a case against an unknown person and have been scouring CCTV footages.

Police vans conduct patrolling at night in the Kalina area but after this incident we have increased the frequency of patrolling in the area, said an officer of the Vakola police station.