Published 20:28 IST, January 24th 2020
CPI MP declines Republic Day invite, says Bolsonaro's actions against Constitution's ethos
CPI Rajya Sabha MP Binoy Viswam wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi declining the invitation to attend the Republic Day celebrations as a sign of protest.
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On Friday, CPI Rajya Sabha MP Biy Viswam wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi declining invitation to attend Republic Day celebrations as a sign of protest. Expressing his bewilderment at Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro being chosen as chief guest at this year’s Republic Day parade, Viswam alleged that his ideology was deep-rooted in misogyny and discrimination. Moreover, he contended that Bolsonaro’s actions were against ethos of Constitution which is celebrated on Republic Day.
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Bolsonaro lands in Delhi
Earlier in day, Bolsonaro landed in national capital ahead of Republic Day celebrations. He was welcomed at tarmac by V Muraleedharan- MoS, Ministry of External Affairs. This will be third occasion on which a Brazilian president will grace Republic Day parade after 1996 and 2004.
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Bolsonaro's controversial statements
Bolsonaro’s visit has come under scrutiny because of his controversial comments on a range of issues. For instance, in 2014, he told opposition leader Maria do Rosario in Brazil’s Parliament, "I wouldn't rape you because you're t worthy of it”. Despite facing vehement criticism, he did t apologise and added that he would t rape her because she was "ugly". He also referred to refugees as “scums of earth” in 2015. Way back in 2002, Bolsonaro was quoted as saying, "I won’t fight against it r discriminate. But if I see two men kissing each or on street, I’ll beat m up”. Critics also panned his alleged misogyny in a speech delivered in 2017 where he stated, "I have five children. Four are men, and n in a moment of weakness fifth came out a girl”.
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20:28 IST, January 24th 2020