The National Commission for Women (NCW) sought an explanation from CBI chief Ranjit Sinha for his controversial rape remark and said it may recommend his resignation to the government after receiving a reply on his “insensitive and irresponsible” statement.

Disapproving Sinha’s statement, the NCW issued a show cause notice seeking an explanation from him for his statement within 24 hours.

“He has made a controversial statement. We will not only condemn it, but also protest against it. He holds such a high position and as the protector of law, how can he make such an insensitive and irresponsible statement,” NCW member Nirmala Samant Prabhavalkar said.

“It shows his sick mindset and we feel that if necessary we may recommend the government to seek his resignation after the explanation. We will take proper action and will definitely see that such kind of thing is not tolerated,” Prabhavalkar added.

The CBI director, who was on the panel of a session on “Ethics and integrity in sports need for a law and role of CBI”, had said last night that there was no harm in legalizing betting in the country.

“If you cannot enforce the ban on betting, it is like saying if you can’t prevent rape, you enjoy it,” he had said.

BJP leader Nitin Gadkari and CPM leader Brinda Karat condemned Sinha’s statement and demanded his resignation.

“I am absolutely outraged that an officer from a responsible office can make such an utterly offensive analysis. I do believe that a strong message should be sent that it is just intolerable and he has to quit office,” Karat said.

“The point is not just remark, but the position he holds, where he is a part of investigations in so many cases of sex assault against women, and if the head of this agency trivializes sexual assault in this manner, what is the message which goes to those who are investigating the cases. He cannot continue in the office. This is also a strong case for prosecution,” Karat said.