“No Action Against Ruling Party Members, So Why Raise Questions?” — Shiv Sena (UBT)’s Bhaskar Jadhav Slams Govt Over Canteen Slap Incident

Mumbai: A political storm erupted in Maharashtra’s Assembly after Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad reportedly slapped a canteen staff member over poor food quality. The incident drew sharp criticism from Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Bhaskar Jadhav, who accused the ruling government of shielding its own members from accountability.

“No action will ever be taken against the people of the ruling party in this government,” Jadhav said, expressing his frustration. “I will not raise this issue in the House… Because when we raise issues against the government, the chairperson is the one who answers us. Therefore, nothing will happen by raising questions.”

He further alleged, “There is not a single example where this party, which calls itself a civilised party, has ever stopped its people from doing such irresponsible things… This kind of bullying, beating up people, will never be supported. The Maharashtra CM is very clever. Whatever statement he makes has a double meaning — that action will be taken against the opposition if it does something, but never against the people of their own party.”

Responding to the outrage, MLA Sanjay Gaikwad defended his actions by raising long-standing concerns about the poor hygiene and quality of food served in the Akashwani canteen.

“I have been coming to Akashwani canteen for 30 years and staying here for 5.5 years. I have repeatedly requested that they serve good food,” Gaikwad said. “Eggs 15 days old, non-veg 15-20 days old, vegetables 2-4 days old… Nearly 5,000-10,000 people eat here, and everyone has the same complaint. Someone has a lizard in their food, someone has a rat or a rope.”

Describing the incident, he stated, “I ordered food at 10 PM yesterday, and after having the first bite, I felt there was something wrong. After smelling it, I found it was stale food. I made everyone smell it, and all of them found it stale. I explained to them again that they should make clean and good food, eating poison-like food is a health hazard… If they do not still listen, then I have my own way of making them understand.”

He further added, “Every year, the government receives thousands of complaints and I don’t know why they are ignored. Rats and dirt are present in the kitchen… This should be checked, but no one seems to care… I request an action on the same so that people’s health is not played with.”