Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant apologises for ‘imported maal’ remark against Shaina NC, Sanjay Raut back
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Arvind Sawant has apologized for his “imported maal” comment against Shiv Sena’s Mumbadevi candidate Shaina NC. This sparked a big political storm. Shaina NC even filed a police complaint.
The trouble started when Sawant called Shaina “imported maal” in a media chat. He said his words were misunderstood and apologized if he hurt anyone. Sanjay Raut, a key Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, backed Sawant, saying there was no insult meant.
This incident shows the deep political tensions in Maharashtra, especially in the Shiv Sena. The state is gearing up for Assembly elections on November 20. Many leaders and women’s groups have strongly criticized the derogatory comment against Shaina NC.
Key Takeaways
- Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant apologized for his “imported maal” remark against Shiv Sena’s Mumbadevi candidate Shaina NC.
- The controversial comment sparked a political storm and led to a police complaint by Shaina NC.
- Sanjay Raut, a prominent Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, defended Sawant, claiming there was no insult intended.
- The incident highlights the ongoing political tensions within the Shiv Sena party as Maharashtra prepares for the upcoming Assembly elections.
- Derogatory comments against women have been strongly condemned by political leaders and women’s organizations.
Understanding the Controversy: Sawant’s ‘Imported Maal’ Comment
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant’s “imported maal” remark against BJP leader Shaina NC has caused a big stir in Maharashtra. Sawant, with over 55 years of political experience, apologized for his comments. He acknowledged the backlash he faced.
The controversy started when Sawant called Shaina NC “imported maal” after she joined the Shiv Sena (UBT) from the BJP. Many saw this as sexist and disrespectful. Shaina NC responded by filing a police complaint against Sawant.
Political Context Behind the Remarks
The controversy happened just before the Maharashtra Assembly elections on November 20. It showed the political tensions within the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the rivalry between different parties in the state. The involvement of leaders from the Shiv Sena (UBT), BJP, and Congress made the issue even more complex.
Media Coverage and Social Impact
The “imported maal” comment by Arvind Sawant got a lot of media attention. Many politicians shared their opinions on the matter. The incident highlighted the need for respect towards women in politics.
The contrast between the government’s efforts to empower women and Sawant’s derogatory language was striking. It showed how important gender equality is in politics.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Arvind Sawant’s Political Career | 55 years |
| FIR Filed Against Sawant | 1 |
| Delay in Sawant’s Apology | 30 hours |
The controversy over Arvind Sawant’s “imported maal” comment has highlighted the ongoing political tensions and the need for more sensitivity towards gender issues. As the Maharashtra Assembly elections approach, this incident will likely have big effects on political parties and their appeal to women voters.
Shaina NC’s Strong Response and Police Complaint
Shaina NC, a Shiv Sena candidate, quickly spoke out against Arvind Sawant’s “imported maal” remark. She said, “I am a woman, not ‘maal.'” She then filed a police complaint against Sawant, leading to an FIR at the Nagpada Police Station.
Shaina NC has worked for Mumbai’s people for 20 years. She was upset by being objectified. She called the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance “Maha Vinash Aghadi” for disrespecting women. She said women in Maharashtra will respond to these insults in the elections.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Arvind Sawant’s Age | 72 years old |
| Shaina NC’s Age | 52 years old |
| Sections under which the FIR was filed | Sections 79 and 356(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) |
| Shaina NC’s Constituency | Mumbadevi |
| Shaina NC’s Opponent | Congress candidate Amin Patel |
The Maharashtra State Commission of Women has told the police to act on Sawant’s comments. Sawant said “maal” means “goods,” but his words still upset many. The Mahayuti and some MVA groups have also criticized him.
Shaina NC’s fight for women’s respect has touched many in Maharashtra. The elections will show how political parties handle women’s concerns.
Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde’s Condemnation
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde strongly condemned Arvind Sawant’s remarks. He said Balasaheb Thackeray, the Shiv Sena founder, would have “broken Sawant’s mouth” for disrespecting women.
Shinde made it clear that Sawant’s comments were an insult to all women in Maharashtra. They went against the Shiv Sena’s core values. This incident has highlighted the split in the Shiv Sena and its impact on women voters in the upcoming elections.
Reference to Balasaheb Thackeray’s Legacy
Eknath Shinde invoked Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy to show the Shiv Sena’s respect for women. He said Thackeray would never have tolerated such behavior. Shinde’s condemnation aimed to distance the party from Sawant’s actions.
Political Implications for Shiv Sena
The controversy has worsened the split in the Shiv Sena. This once powerful party in Maharashtra is now facing internal divisions. The actions of its leaders, like Sawant, could alienate women voters ahead of the elections.
Impact on Women Voters
Eknath Shinde believes women voters will teach a lesson to those who disrespect them. His strong stance and reference to Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy show the importance of women’s votes in Maharashtra.
“If Balasaheb Thackeray were alive, he would have broken Sawant’s mouth for such disrespectful comments against women.”
– Eknath Shinde, Maharashtra Chief Minister
Role of National Commission for Women in the Controversy
The National Commission for Women (NCW) was key in the controversy over Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant’s comments. Vijaya Rahatkar, the NCW chairperson, quickly denounced Sawant’s remarks. She called for immediate action from the police and the Election Commission of India.
Rahatkar said it was wrong for a public figure to insult women, especially during Diwali and Lakshmi Puja. The NCW’s role showed how the issue affects women’s rights and politics in India.
The NCW’s move stressed the need for more respect for women in politics. Rahatkar asked for Sawant’s apology and backed Shaina NC’s rights. This action showed that insulting language towards women is unacceptable.
FAQ
What was the controversy surrounding Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant’s “imported maal” remark against Shaina NC?
Arvind Sawant, a leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), apologized for calling Shaina NC “imported maal”. This happened during a media event. Sawant said his words were misunderstood and he regrets if they caused any pain.
What was the political context behind Arvind Sawant’s remarks?
Sawant made the comment about Shaina NC switching from BJP to Shiv Sena. His words were seen as sexist and sparked a lot of anger. This all happened before the Maharashtra Assembly elections in November.
How did the media and political figures respond to the incident?
The media gave a lot of coverage to the issue. Many politicians spoke out. Sanjay Raut supported Sawant, saying there was no insult meant. The whole thing highlighted the tension within Shiv Sena and the need for respect in politics.
How did Shaina NC respond to Sawant’s remark?
Shaina NC was very upset and said, “I am a woman, not ‘maal’.” She even filed a police complaint against Sawant. This led to an FIR at Nagpada Police Station. Shaina called the MVA alliance “Maha Vinash Aghadi” for disrespecting women.
What were the reactions from Maharashtra’s political leaders?
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde strongly condemned Sawant’s words. He said Balasaheb Thackeray would have punished Sawant if he were alive. Shinde said such comments are a shame to all women in Maharashtra and go against Shiv Sena’s values.
How did the National Commission for Women (NCW) respond to the controversy?
Vijaya Rahatkar, the NCW chairperson, asked the police and Election Commission to take action. She said it’s unacceptable for a public figure to speak this way about women, especially during Diwali and Lakshmi Puja.