Maharashtra FDA: Canteen Licence After MLA Assault
Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad assaults Canteen Contractor Over Food Quality
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Outrage as MLA Physically Attacks Contractor, Cites Years of Complaints
A Shiv Sena MLA, Sanjay Gaikwad, sparked widespread condemnation after a video surfaced showing him physically assaulting a contractor operating the canteen at a Maharashtra legislative hostel. The incident, which occurred on Tuesday, stemmed from Gaikwad’s long-standing complaints about the quality of food served, which he alleges has repeatedly made him and other hostel residents ill.
The Assault: A Disturbing Display of Frustration
The video, now widely circulated online, depicts Gaikwad confronting the canteen contractor at the billing counter.He allegedly forced the contractor to smell a packet of dal before delivering a forceful punch, knocking the man to the ground. Gaikwad then reportedly slapped the contractor as he attempted to rise. Following the assault, the MLA was heard stating he had taught the worker a lesson ”apne style se (in my style).”
Gaikwad justified his actions by claiming the food, especially the dal, was substandard and had caused him to vomit after the first bite. He stated he had voiced concerns about the food quality on numerous occasions, alleging the contractor consistently failed to address the issues.
Years of complaints: A Pattern of Poor Food Standards
The MLA detailed a history of unsanitary conditions and poor food quality at the hostel, claiming the problems have persisted for the six years he has resided there. he recounted instances of finding lizards and rats in the food, as well as serving spoiled ingredients.
“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, and someone has a rat or a rope,” Gaikwad explained to the media, highlighting the scale of the alleged problem. He emphasized the potential health risks posed to the thousands of individuals who rely on the canteen for meals.
“shiv Sena Style” and Defiant Justification
Defending his actions, Gaikwad invoked the legacy of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, referencing a “Shiv Sena style” of addressing grievances. “If someone does not understand the language of democracy, this is my language. I am a warrior,” he declared, adding he would not hesitate to repeat the act if the situation remained unchanged. This statement has further fueled the controversy and drawn criticism from across the political spectrum.
Condemnation and Calls for Accountability
The incident has drawn swift and strong condemnation from political leaders. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis denounced Gaikwad’s behavior as unacceptable and damaging to the reputation of the state legislature. “Assaulting staff is not the way to raise grievances,” Fadnavis stated, urging legislators to utilize proper channels for addressing concerns.
The incident raises serious questions about accountability and the appropriate methods for addressing complaints within the legislative system. while gaikwad maintains he was driven to drastic measures by repeated failures to resolve the food quality issues, his actions are widely viewed as a violation of the law and an abuse of power.
Ongoing Investigation and Legislative Action
Gaikwad has stated his intention to raise the issue of food quality during the ongoing legislative session, reiterating his previous complaints and demanding a resolution. Authorities are expected to investigate the assault, and legal action might potentially be taken against the MLA. the incident has sparked a broader debate about the standards of hygiene and food safety in government-run canteens and hostels across Maharashtra.Published By: Nakul ahuja
Published On: Jul 9, 2025