Lagatar24 Desk
Mumbai: Mumbai Police have initiated proceedings to register a case against Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad after a video surfaced online showing him allegedly assaulting a staff member at the Maharashtra legislature’s canteen. The Marine Drive police station took suo motu cognisance of the incident following the video’s rapid spread on social media.
Viral Video Sparks Outrage and Political Backlash
In the widely circulated clip, Gaikwad is seen slapping and punching a staff member at the Akashvani MLAs’ canteen. Reports suggest the assault was sparked by dissatisfaction over “state food” served at the facility. The video also shows Gaikwad angrily making people smell a packet of dal before physically attacking the canteen contractor.
The incident has ignited widespread political condemnation from both the ruling government and the opposition. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned Gaikwad’s actions, stating such behaviour “sends a wrong message” about legislators misusing their power. Fadnavis directed the police to proceed with an investigation even without a formal complaint. “There’s no need for the police to wait for a formal complaint to initiate a probe,” Fadnavis said.
Shiv Sena Leadership Reacts
Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde also expressed disapproval of Gaikwad’s conduct. “I told him he should have resorted to legal measures, like lodging a complaint. What he did was wrong. It cannot be justified, even though he was expressing anguish over the poor quality of food in the MLA canteen,” Shinde stated.
Earlier, Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam had said the police could not act against Gaikwad without an official complaint, a stance that changed following mounting public and political pressure.
FDA Acts Against Canteen Contractor
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licence of the catering contractor operating the canteen. Officials reported that violations of food safety norms were discovered during a subsequent inspection at the facility.
The “slapgate” incident has intensified discussions around lawmakers’ conduct and accountability, placing renewed focus on the misuse of political power.
