'South Indians cannot cook; run dance bars...' Brash Shiv Sena MLA who thrashed man over food triggers new row
Mumbai: The controversy surrounding Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad, who assaulted a canteen worker at the Mumbai MLA hostel over alleged stale food, took a new turn on Thursday after the legislator made provocative remarks targeting South Indians living in Maharashtra.
Speaking to India Today, Gaikwad said South people are not too inclined to Maharashtra yet. "Look at the dance bars, ladies bars – mostly owned by Shettys. They influence the youth badly and destroy Maharashtra’s culture.” He further claimed, “Our culture doesn’t have dance bars. Our leaders like Balasaheb, Raj Thackeray, and even Eknath Shinde have opposed them before.”
The remarks are being seen as a deliberate attempt to stir regional sentiment and shift focus from the viral video showing the Buldhana MLA slapping and punching a hostel canteen employee, which triggered backlash across party lines.
Food and Drugs Administration takes action
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has taken action by suspending the licence of Ajanta Caterers, the firm running the canteen at the Akashwani MLA hostel. The FDA cited violations under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and related regulations, following a surprise inspection on Wednesday.
The FDA has directed the caterer to stop all food services at the MLA hostel.
Political leaders condemn Shiv Sena MLA's assault
Despite the administrative action, Gaikwad's behaviour was condemned by both government and opposition leaders. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis called the assault “unacceptable” and said it reflects poorly on public representatives. Deputy CM Eknath Shinde also criticised the violence, saying legal action is the right approach, not physical assault.
However, Gaikwad has attempted to defend his actions and now appears to be infusing regional and cultural rhetoric into the debate. His recent remarks have drawn sharp criticism on social media and from political opponents.