Union Minister Smriti Irani came under fire from the Congress for her remarks questioning the validity of the Global Hunger Index, on which India performed poorly. While addressing a gathering at a FICCI event discussing the "Future Role of Women in India,", Irani made a significant statement, claiming that certain indices, like the Global Hunger Index, do not accurately represent India's progress.
The BJP leader went on further claiming that the annual Global Hunger Index report is prepared by calling up people and asking them if they are hungry. A video of her speech has been circulating on social media, in which Irani was heard saying, "How do they build that index? 3000 people from a country of 140 crore get a phone call from Gallup and they are asked, 'Are you hungry'?"
Her remark on the Global Hunger Index brought a sharp reaction from Congress leader Supriya Shrinate. "I don’t know what’s more shameful - your level of ignorance or your insensitivity at display here?" Shrinate wrote on X while sharing the long post.
"Do you honestly think the Global Hunger Index is calculated by calling up people and asking them if they are hungry!!??? You are the Women and Child Development Minister in the Government of India - it’s appalling to hear you. Frankly, you are an embarrassment!" she added.
"Please don't make fun of hunger - you are a very powerful, rich woman, a minister in the Government of India! There is delicious and ample food available on the planes you're flying in the morning and in every city you're visiting! There is a difference between not being able to eat while being busy and not getting enough food, madam!" Shrinate said.
Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Priyanka Chaturvedi also reacted to Irani's remarks, and said, "Hardly having the time to eat Hardly having food to eat If arrogance had a face, it would be Mantriji."