Javadekar seeks Mamata's apology over UN-referendum remark

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Friday sought an apology from West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee over her demand for a UN-monitored referendum on the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA) and the National Register of Citizens (NRC), and called her remark an "insult to 130 crore" Indians.

He said the Parliament, elected by the people have passed the law, so, who is the UN-body to monitor it.

"I am surprised with Banerjee's referendum demand. It is shocking. Bill is approved by both the Houses after proper debate. Her statement is very unfortunate," he told mediapersons here.

"Who is the UN body to monitor the referendum?," he asked.

"This is an insult to the 130 crore people of the country and their mandate. The country is upset, she should appplogise," Javadekar added.

Throwing a challenge to the BJP ruling at the Centre, Banerjee on Thursday called for a UN-conducted referendum across the country on the CAA and the NRC and said the Nerendra Modi government would have to resign if the people rejected these.

"If you have the guts, let there be a referendum across the country on CAA and NRC issues. You won't conduct it, it will be conducted by the United Nations - an impartial organisation," she said.IANS