Shiv Sena UBT leader and Mumbai South MP Arvind Sawant has ignited a political firestorm with his recent comments regarding newly inducted Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC. In a video that has circulated widely online, Sawant is heard referring to Shaina using the term “maal,” which has been widely criticized as a sexist slur.
Standing beside him during the remarks was Congress leader and Mumbadevi MLA Amin Patel. Sawant’s comments included, “Imported nahi chalta yahan, imported maal nahi chalta humare yahan, humare yahan original maal chalta hai,” translating to, “Imported is not accepted here, imported goods are not accepted here. Original goods are accepted here, our goods are original.”
These remarks have drawn significant backlash as Shaina NC steps into the competitive race for the Mumbadevi constituency amid escalating tensions. Responding strongly to Sawant’s comments, Shaina stated, “This reveals Arvind Sawant’s and his party’s mindset. Does he view every woman in Mumbadevi as ‘maal’? He shows no respect for women, using such terms to describe a capable woman in politics. Now, he will face the consequences for calling a woman ‘maal.’ Whether I take further action or not, the public will ensure he faces repercussions.”
The Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde recently announced Shaina NC as its candidate for the Mumbadevi constituency in the upcoming state assembly elections, a decision made just one day before the nomination deadline. Shaina submitted her nomination papers on Tuesday afternoon, positioning herself for a significant electoral challenge.
The Mumbadevi constituency, encompassing parts of Mumbai South including Worli, Byculla, Malabar Hill, Shivadi, and Colaba, has seen a history of political contests. BJP’s Raj K. Purohit held the seat for four terms from 1990 to 2009, but the Congress has retained control since then, with Amin Patel winning the last election.
There had been speculation about the BJP nominating Shaina for the Worli seat; however, under the alliance’s seat-sharing arrangement, Worli was designated for Shiv Sena, with Milind Deora chosen to run against Shiv Sena UBT’s Aaditya Thackeray.
As the election approaches, the fallout from Sawant’s comments is likely to resonate in the campaign, with both sides gearing up for a contentious battle in Mumbadevi.