Controversy Erupts as Shiv Sena MLA Slaps Canteen Staff Over Food Quality

Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad recently made headlines after slapping a canteen employee due to complaints about the poor quality of food served. Uddhav Thackeray, the leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), distanced himself from Gaikwad, asserting that he is affiliated with the Shinde faction. Thackeray expressed his belief that there is a deliberate attempt to tarnish the Chief Minister's reputation, suggesting that all actions are being executed with intent. He remarked that Eknath Shinde aspired to become Chief Minister but was unsuccessful, leading to his current impatience.

What Happened?

During a session at the Mumbai legislative assembly, MLA Sanjay Gaikwad confronted a canteen worker after receiving stale food. Following the incident, Gaikwad stated that the meal was unacceptable and vowed to raise the issue in the ongoing legislative session. His actions drew criticism from several opposition party members. A video capturing the incident went viral on social media, showing Gaikwad reprimanding the canteen manager, refusing to pay the bill, and slapping the employee at the billing counter. Gaikwad mentioned to the media that he had previously complained about the food quality on two or three occasions, emphasizing that this time it was entirely intolerable.

Fadnavis Responds to Anil Parab

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reacted strongly to the viral video of Sanjay Gaikwad assaulting a canteen employee. The incident, which sparked widespread outrage, reportedly stemmed from complaints regarding the quality of food served to Gaikwad. Fadnavis's comments came in response to Anil Parab, a leader from Shiv Sena (UBT), who had raised the issue in the assembly, accusing the ruling coalition of political arrogance and high-handedness. Addressing these concerns, the Chief Minister stated that such behavior sends a damaging message to the public regarding legislators and their power dynamics.