“South Indians Run Ladies’ Bars and Dance Bars”: Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad Defends Assault with Racist Outburst

Mumbai: Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) MLA Sanjay Gaikwad has ignited a fierce political and social controversy after making inflammatory remarks linking South Indians to the rise of ladies’ bars and dance bars in Maharashtra, following his violent outburst at a canteen inside the Mumbai MLA hostel.

Gaikwad, who was seen in a viral video slapping and pushing a canteen manager over allegations of stale food, not only defended his actions but escalated tensions with a communal angle. In his interaction with a local media outlet, the Buldhana MLA said, “Why are people sympathising with the South Indian canteen owner? It is they who brought ladies’ bars and dance bars to Maharashtra and corrupted our culture.”

The incident, which initially drew criticism for the assault itself, has now taken on a regional and communal dimension. Gaikwad’s comments accusing the South Indian community of cultural degradation have sparked outrage across political lines and on social media.

The episode began earlier this week when Gaikwad, upset over what he described as “toxic and stale food,” stormed into the MLA hostel canteen and physically attacked a staff member. In response, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) carried out a raid and suspended the license of the caterer, Ajanta Caterers, citing violations of food safety norms.

Instead of expressing regret, Gaikwad appeared on camera doubling down. He claimed that over 400 food-related complaints had gone unheard and that his action finally forced the system to respond. He emphasized that the food served had caused him health issues and posed risks to others as well.

Further stoking tensions, Gaikwad questioned why contracts weren’t given to “Marathi people who understand local food culture,” suggesting that outsiders, particularly South Indians, were unsuitable to run such facilities in the state.

Despite mounting criticism and calls for disciplinary action from the opposition, Gaikwad has stood by his remarks, describing the assault as “minor” and legally “non-cognizable.” He claimed knowledge of the law and stated he was willing to accept any punishment handed down by the Speaker or Chief Minister.