- By Aditya Jha
- Thu, 10 Jul 2025 06:39 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
Maharashtra: A massive controversy erupted after Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad on Thursday passed derogatory remarks against the South Indians. Gaikwad stated that the residents of the southern states should not be given food contracts, claiming that they don't know how to serve good food and run "dance bars and ladies bars". The remarks from the Shiv Sena MLA came a day after his controversial video of slapping a canteen manager surfaced on the social media platforms. Gaikwad also stated that the residents from the other states have spoiled Maharashtra's culture and have "corrupted children".
"Why was a contractor named Shetty given the contract? Give it to a Marathi person. They know what we eat and will give us good quality food. South Indians run dance bars, ladies bars, and spoil Maharashtra's culture. They have corrupted our children. How will they serve good food?" Gaikwad was quoted as saying by India Today. Earlier on Wednesday, a controversy erupted after a video went viral in which the Shiv Sena MLA was seen slapping and abusing canteen staff.
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While reacting to the incident, Gaikwad stated that while his method was wrong, the "goal was right". He further stated that the food contracts must be given to Marathi people. "The manager and the license have been suspended. I did not hit the waiter. I hit the manager. My method may have been wrong, but the goal was right. I will hit again if someone repeats such an act. The administration engages in give-and-take, which causes delays in action. Why was a contractor named Shetty given the contract? Give it to a Marathi person instead," Gaikwad stated.
However, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Shiv Sena chief and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde criticised the act by stating that no one has the right to break the law and order.
