Actress-turned-politician Kushboo, who was previously a prominent member of the Indian National Congress, joined the Bharatiya Janata party earlier this week and the actress has got into a controversy after using the term "mentally retarded" for a political party.

Kushboo had been criticised by the National Platform for the Rights of the Disabled (NPRD), which had complained against her for using a derogatory remark offensive to people with disabilities at various police stations.

Following this, Kushboo has apologized and has said, "I’m terribly sorry for the incorrect use of a couple of phrases in a moment of hastiness, deep distress and anguish. Being a self-made woman, the insinuation that I was being directed and influenced by significant others in my decisions was both objectionable and myisogynistic. I have struggled with mental health concerns in my own family and have friends who are capable leaders, insightful and dynamic and living with bipolar disorder and depression. For their friendship and wisdom, I’m richer! Not just am I sensitive to diversity amongst people, but value it and have gained hugely from it. I realise that many leaders in the past have also made similar references and as much as I am disappointed by the inadvertent distress that I have caused many, equally I am now determined to ensure that I do not repeat this ever, whatever the motivation. I also dedicate myself to ensure that the voices of those with psychosocial disability are valued and heard, as they should be."