'I can tell you for sure that but for me, the law and order situation would have worsened to a stage where the central government would have been compelled to impose President's Rule in all states,' she said.

Thanking all political parties for condemning Joshi's remarks, Mayawati said: 'I was surprised that initially Congress president Sonia Gandhi did not tender an apology. It was only on second thoughts, after she realised that many MPs had disapproved of Joshi's remarks, that Sonia expressed her regret.

'I do not mind healthy criticism but use of unparliamentary, obscene and derogatory remarks cannot be condoned,' she said. 'It is high time the Congress party realises that and tells its leaders and workers to behave.

'Joshi's act was unpardonable and the law will take its course. Like Varun Gandhi, she may also get bail but I am sure that sooner or later she will definitely get punished,' Mayawati added.