Patna, July 28: Bihar's former chief minister Jitan Ram Manjhi stoked a row with his controversial comment while attempting to defend Samajwadi Party lawmaker Azam Khan over his alleged sexist remarks in the Lok Sabha. According to Manjhi, Khan owes an apology for his statement, but it was not outrageous to an extent where his parliamentary membership should be terminated.

Manjhi told reporters on Sunday that the controversy should be settled with Khan issuing a note of regret. "He should apologise but not resign," the Hindustan Awami Morcha (Secular) leader said. Rama Devi Says Azam Khan's Remarks Shameful, 'Won't Forgive Even If He Apologises'

Further explaining his stance, Manjhi himself ended up stoking a row. "When brother, sister meet they kiss, is it equal to sex? Mother kisses son, son kisses mother, is it sex," asked the Bihar politician.

The contentious statements by Khan were issued on Thursday, during a debate on the triple talaq Bill. The remarks were immediately expunged from the records by the Chair.

Watch: Azam Khan Defends Himself Over 'Sexist' Remark Row

According to reports, Khan is likely to be asked to apologise unconditionally to BJP MP Rama Devi, against whom he made the controversial remark. If his disagrees, then Speaker Om Birla is expected to take a stern action against him.

Khan has so far denied any wrongdoing, claiming that he views the BJP lawmaker as his sister. The Rampur MP said his remarks are being misinterpreted, and he is "ready to resign" if any part of his speech in the House is found to be unparliamentary.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 28, 2019 06:52 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).