Didn't utter insulting words about women, my remarks taken out of context: Khawaja Asif

ISLAMABAD (APP) - Minister for Defence Khawaja Asif clarified that his remarks about Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) members during the joint session of the Parliament were misconstrued and not meant to single out any particular gender.

Speaking on the floor of the National Assembly on Thursday, he said that he had not uttered insulting words about women and linking his views with women was unjustified. As calls for an apology grew, Khawaja Asif firmly stated that he saw no reason to apologize for his comments.

However, he offered to tender an apology if the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership also apologize to Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Faryal Talpur for their own remarks. He asked parliamentarians not to obstruct the passage of legislations. On the other hand, PTI members staged a walk out in protest.

Meanwhile, Law Minister Khawaja Asif advised the members to reduce the bitterness. "There is no need of apology when an explanation is given."

JUI Senator Kamran Murtaza excused from the women over Khawaja Asif's remarks.