Maharashtra MLA’s Assault and Casteist Remarks Spark Outrage

A shocking incident involving Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad has ignited public outrage. Gaikwad physically assaulted a canteen staffer at the MLA hostel in Mumbai, allegedly over stale food. The incident, captured on video, has drawn widespread condemnation. What’s even more disturbing are the MLA’s subsequent comments.

Gaikwad’s Divisive Rhetoric Fuels Controversy

In a subsequent interview, Gaikwad not only defended his actions but also launched a tirade against the Shetty community, accusing them of “defaming Maharashtra’s culture” and linking them to dance bars. These inflammatory remarks, reeking of regionalism and prejudice, have further fueled the controversy. Gaikwad attempted to justify his actions by citing a 20-year-old stomach ailment and claiming that a Marathi person would never have served stale food. He insisted he only slapped the “manager,” as if that somehow excused the violence.

Condemnation from Top Officials, But No Remorse from Gaikwad

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis have condemned Gaikwad’s conduct. However, the MLA remains unrepentant. This incident raises serious concerns about the unchecked arrogance among some public representatives and the normalization of violence and communal slander in political discourse.