“No Complaint Needed, Police Will Act”: Maharashtra CM Fadnavis on Canteen Staff Assault by Shiv Sena MLA

Mumbai: The controversy surrounding Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) MLA Sanjay Gaikwad’s assault on a canteen worker at the MLA hostel near Akashvani has escalated into a political and administrative flashpoint, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis firmly declaring that police do not need a formal complaint to investigate the matter.

Breaking ranks with earlier remarks from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Fadnavis asserted, “It is not necessary for someone to file a complaint; the police are empowered to investigate and will certainly do so.” The statement has been interpreted as a public rebuke to conflicting messages within the state government and a signal that the issue will not be brushed aside.

Amid growing outrage, the Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has also stepped in, suspending the license of Ajanta Caterers, the firm responsible for running the MLA hostel canteen. The FDA’s move follows a surprise inspection on Tuesday that revealed multiple violations under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

The FDA cited concerns over stale and unhygienic food, which had been at the centre of Gaikwad’s reported outburst. As per sources, Ajanta Caterers was ordered to immediately cease operations, and a full report on the kitchen’s conditions is expected within the next week.

The incident, which was caught on camera and widely circulated online, shows MLA Sanjay Gaikwad slapping a staffer allegedly after being served spoiled food. While Gaikwad claimed he acted out of frustration due to repeated negligence, critics—including civil society members and opposition leaders—have called it a “blatant misuse of power” and demanded disciplinary action.