Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 9: Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad has come under intense political fire after a video surfaced showing him physically assaulting a canteen worker at the state-run Akashvani MLA Guest House in Mumbai. The incident, which took place during the Monsoon Session of the Maharashtra Assembly, has triggered condemnation across party lines, with many calling it a clear abuse of power.

The video, which went viral on social media, shows Gaikwad slapping and punching the staffer, allegedly over being served "stale food." Despite the backlash, Gaikwad remained unapologetic, dismissing criticism and defending his actions. “I did not do anything wrong. I don't care what people say,” he told reporters.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi condemned Gaikwad’s behavior, calling it a display of unchecked arrogance. “The way he raised his hand on a poor canteen worker just because the food wasn’t to his liking shows how deeply intoxicated on power he is,” she said. Chaturvedi also reminded that this was the same leader who had earlier threatened Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, yet no action was taken against him.

Congress leader Vijay Namdevrao Wadettiwar also criticized the assault, pointing out that while complaints about poor-quality food may be valid, resorting to violence is unacceptable. “This is a clear case of misusing authority,” he said.

Echoing the sentiment, Congress state president Nana Patole questioned why Gaikwad did not opt for a legal route to address the food quality issue. “These people think they’re above the law. That man earns his livelihood by working daily — who gave anyone the right to beat him?” Patole said, warning against the normalization of violent behavior by those in power.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sachin Ahir took a sarcastic dig at Gaikwad, suggesting, “If this is how issues are to be resolved, maybe the government should make him a brand ambassador for boxing or wrestling.”

Meanwhile, some within Gaikwad’s own faction, the Shiv Sena (Shinde group), defended him. Minister Shambhuraj Desai said he would speak to Gaikwad to understand the reasons behind his outburst and added that a discussion with the Chief Minister may follow. Shiv Sena spokesperson Manisha Kayande described Gaikwad as a “sensitive” individual who reacts passionately to causes he believes in, but insisted the real issue — substandard food by the contractor — should not be ignored.

BJP MLA Ram Kadam, while acknowledging that violence from a public representative is inexcusable, also raised concerns over food quality, suggesting both aspects of the issue must be addressed.

As public pressure mounts, the incident has reignited debate over the abuse of privilege and impunity among elected officials, with opposition leaders demanding accountability and disciplinary action.