Amid the ongoing row over Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant’s “imported maal” remark, Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC filed a complaint against him on Friday, stating that the law will take its course and that she has done what a self-respecting woman should do.
“FIR has been registered – regarding outraging the modesty of woman and defamation as he has used derogatory remark. We are here to work actively. If he had to discuss, he should have discussed over work. The law will take its course, I have done what a self-respecting woman should do,” the Shiv Sena leader told ANI.
Shaina slammed the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) for failing to respect women, claiming that the women of Maharashtra will respond appropriately.
“We all know that “MahaVinashAghadi” don’t respect women… Ma Mumba Devi’s blessing is with me, I am a woman but not “maal”. If you are to make derogatory remarks against any woman, then this is the FIR and the law will take its course. Mumbai Police has registered a case under BNS sections – 79 and 356 (2)… When you outrage the modesty of a woman, do you think that the woman will keep quiet? Women of Maharashtra will give them a befitting reply,” she said.
Sections 79 and 356(2) of BNS were invoked in the case registered at Nagpada Police Station against Arvind Sawant following Shaina’s complaint.
In response to backlash for allegedly referring to Shaina as “imported maal,” Sawant claimed he did not mention her name and characterized himself as the true victim of defamation. He clarified that his remark was intended to address outsiders not being suitable for local contexts, emphasizing that Shaina is a friend whom he respects.
“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 while speaking to ANI.
Defending his 55-year political career, Sawant stated he has always respected women and accused his opponents of attempting to damage his reputation.
“They file defamation cases, yet it is they who are defaming me. I condemn their intent. I have been in politics for 55 years, and have always respected women. Those who are supporting her – ask them to answer whatever questions I have asked… Shaina NC is my friend, she has worked for me, and I respect her… They are ‘satta jihadi’ people, as our leader Uddhav Thackeray says,” Sawant added.
The controversy began when Sawant allegedly remarked, “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.”
The Maharashtra Assembly election is scheduled for November 20, with vote counting for all 288 constituencies set for November 23.