Diana Hayden was crowned Miss World 1997, making it a proud moment for every Indian to celebrate the third victory at the coveted pageant.

But it seems like Chief Minister of Tripura Biplab Deb does not share the sentiments of his countrymen. He sparked yet another controversy as he remarked that Diana Hayden does not represent Indian beauty referring to her skin colour.

Explaining the reasoning for his statement, Deb said, "Indian beauty should ideally look like Goddesses Lakshmi and Saraswati. Diana Hayden did not deserve to win the Miss World crown. Actually, it was part of a fixed plan which was hatched keeping in mind the interests of the international market. Aishwarya Rai's victory was well deserved as she represents the quintessential Indian woman.”

Deb’s unacceptable remarks were not taken lying down by our beauty queen as she shared some advice for the Chief Minister - "Think before you speak”. Diana pointed out that she was okay with anyone thinking she did not deserve to win as everyone has a right to an opinion but to come down to skin colour is absolutely unacceptable.

(Photo Credits: Diana Hayden Facebook Page)

The 44-year-old said she loved the fact how people spoke up against Biplab Deb's comments because they should. "It is outrageous and it is something to be upset about," she said.

Diana also pointed out, “Beauty pageant winners work very hard. It is not right to demean them in any way. Besides, we do not see women in any stereotypical manner. They should have the freedom to express themselves as Laxmi, Saraswati or otherwise. It is a shame that our chief minister is making such comments".

Right after Diana’s response, the chief minister regretted his remarks saying, “I was talking about how the handlooms of the state could be marketed well. If anybody is hurt or feeling defamed, I regret for this... I respect all women as my mother.”

Well, there is that. What do you think of this whole controversy? Let us know in the comments section below.