Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Arvind Sawant issued apology on November 2 over his alleged ‘imported maal’ remark against Shiv Sena’s Mumbadevi candidate Shaina N C. While mentioning that he was being “deliberately targeted,” he said that intention was never to insult a woman.

Accusing his opponents of attempting to tarnish his reputation he alleged that his statements were “interpreted differently.” The apology comes a day after the Shiv Sena leader made derogatory statements against the female candidate. He said, “Some allegations have been made against me for the past few days. A complaint has been lodged against me in this regard. We will never insult women,” ANI reported.

A controversy erupted on November 1 after Arvind Sawant asserted that Shaina N C was a BJP member all her life and decided to make a shift until recently. Arvind Sawant’s remark that stirred controversy states, “Imported ‘maal’ doesn’t work here; only original ‘maal’ does.” Justifying his stance, Arvind Sawant alleged that an atmosphere is being created that he has insulted a woman. In the apology he said that that he is he wants to apologise if his “statement hurt anyone’s feelings.”

He added, “I am being deliberately targeted by giving a different meaning, I am sad about this but still, if my statement has hurt anyone’s feelings then I express regret. The respect of women in the country cannot be seen according to the party,” ANI quoted Arvind Sawant as saying.

Meanwhile, condemning Arvind Sawant’s “imported maal” remark, Shaina NC emphasised that objectification of women, and outraging the modesty of women is not a small problem. Shaina NC informed that she filed an FIR at the Nagpada police station on Friday evening. Charges have been levied against the Shiv Sena (UBT) under Sections 79 and 356(2) outraging the modesty of women. Additionally. Election Commission and Women Commission has taken cognizance of the matter.

After facing backlash over his remarks, Arvind Sawant defended himself and claimed that he did not mention Shaina N C’s name. As the countdown to Maharashtra Assembly election begins, which are scheduled for November 20, the political climate is heating up in the state. The vote counting for all 288 constituencies will take place on November 23.

Tensions within Maharashtra’s political landscape escalated over derogatory comments made by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Arvind Sawant, targeting Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena party leader Shaina NC. Arvind Sawant referred to Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC as “imported maal.” Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Kirit Somaiya and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde have both publicly condemned the remarks, demanding accountability and respect for women in politics.

Kirit Somaiya Calls for Arvind Sawant’s Apology

On Saturday, Kirit Somaiya did not hold back in his criticism of Uddhav Thackeray’s faction, urging them to reflect on their language. Speaking to ANI, he stated, “Uddhav Thackeray Sena uses a word like ‘maal’ for a woman candidate, Shaina NC. They should feel ashamed. Uddhav Thackeray should apologise to the nation.”

Somaiya’s remarks highlight a growing concern about the treatment of women in political discourse, particularly in the context of an upcoming election.

CM Eknath Shinde Weighs In

Eknath Shinde, the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, echoed Somaiya’s sentiments, declaring Sawant’s comments as “unfortunate.” He suggested that if Balasaheb Thackeray, the late founder of the Shiv Sena, were alive, he would have strongly condemned such remarks.

“It’s very unfortunate. Speaking ill of a woman is highly condemnable, and no amount of criticism is enough,” Shinde asserted. He added that actions like Sawant’s expose the true character of the party, stating, “If Balasaheb were alive, he would have strongly condemned and would have broken his mouth.”

Arvind Sawant’s ‘Imported Maal’ Remark Row

The uproar began when Arvind Sawant referred to Shaina NC as “imported maal,” implying that outsiders do not belong in Maharashtra’s political scene. He said, “Look at her condition. She was in the BJP all her life and now she went to another party. Imported ‘maal’ doesn’t work here; only original ‘maal’ does.”

In response to the comments, Shaina NC filed a complaint at the Nagpada Police Station, asserting her right to challenge derogatory remarks against her. “FIR has been registered regarding outraging the modesty of a woman and defamation as he has used a derogatory remark. The law will take its course,” she stated, emphasising her commitment to justice.

Arvind Sawant Defends Himself Amid Backlash

Facing significant backlash, Sawant attempted to clarify his comments, claiming he did not mention Shaina NC by name. “I never mentioned her name. I only said that someone who is an outsider will not be able to work here. It’s their habit to create uproar,” he said.

He also defended his respect for women, insisting, “I have always respected women and accused my opponents of trying to tarnish my reputation.” Sawant portrayed Shaina NC as a friend, stating, “Shaina NC is my friend, she has worked for me, and I respect her.”

Maharashtra Elections 2024

With the Maharashtra Assembly election approaching on November 20, political tensions are running high. Both major parties are gearing up for a battle, with vote counting scheduled for November 23.