I was misquoted, says Giri

BHUBANESWAR, July 11: V Mohini Giri, chairperson of the National Commission for Women, said on Friday that she had been misquoted in a section of the press on the conduct of inmates of a working women8217;s hostel in Orissa.

In a fax message to Chief Minister J B Patnaik, Giri said she was pained after reading reports about her statement allegedly made at a workshop on Rights of Women Prisoners8217; held here on Wednesday. She categorically denied having made any statement to the effect that 50 per cent of inmates of a working women8217;s hostel in Bhubaneswar were into prostitution. Giri maintained that she was speaking on the effects of consumerism and how it had affected the lives of young women all over the country. 8220;My remarks were not aimed at any particular institution in Orissa,8221; she said. Giri also said that she would like to convey her regrets if her remarks had hurt the people of Orissa, especially the women-folk of the state. Giri8217;s fax message was placed in the Assembly by the Chief Minister yesterday.Several members from the Opposition bench were not happy with Giri8217;s clarification. Janata Dal MLA Narsingh Mishra said he saw Giri making the controversial statement on hostel inmates on television that day. Mishra maintained that the press had reported her statement correctly. The Dal leader demanded that the state government inquire into the matter and if what she said was found to be incorrect, strong action be initiated against her. But if found true, action should be taken against the guilty persons, he added. Making a statement on the issue in the House, Chief Minister Patnaik said Giri had not visited any working women8217;s hostel during her recent visit to the state. 8220;This fact has been confirmed by the chairperson of the State Commission for Women and Sukeshi Oram, a member of the NCW who accompanied Giri,8221; the Chief Minister said.

The CM informed the House that the State was contemplating filing a defamation case against Giri for making such an 8220;irresponsible, unfortunate and derogatory8221;statement about women.

The workshop, Patnaik said, was attended by a minister and chairperson of the state commission for women and Giri8217;s letter cannot be accepted as true. He suggested further inquiry into the matter. To this the Chief Minister replied, 8220;When she herself is denying what can we do ?8221;. Independent member, Balgopal Mishra alleged that attempts were being made to suppress the truth.