Arvind Sawant ’imported maal’ remark: Shaina NC says ’Maha Vinash Aghadi’ doesn’t’ respect women; NCW chief seeks action

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Arvind Sawant insisted on Friday that his remarks against Shaina NC were being ‘misinterpreted’ as the latter filed an FIR with Mumbai Police. The developments came even as the National Commission for Women dubbed his ‘imported maal’ jibe against the rival politician “extremely inappropriate” and sought action from the police and Election Commission.

“We all know that Maha Vinash Aghadi 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,” the Shiv Sena leader told ANI on Friday evening.

The Maharashtra Assembly election is set to take place on November 20, with vote counting for all 288 constituencies scheduled for November 23.

Sawant meanwhile contends that his remark was a generic statement about outsiders being unsuitable in the local context. He insisted on Friday evening that Shaina NC was a friend and former colleague whom he respected. The Shiv Sena (UBT) lawmaker also highlighted his 55-year political career and accused opponents of trying to tarnish his reputation.

“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 added while speaking to ANI.

The NCW also waded into the debate on Friday with Chairperson Vijaya Rahatkar urging the EC to take “immediate action”.

“Shiv Sena (Thackeray) MP Arvind Sawant has made a very inappropriate statement against Shiv Sena (Shinde) Assembly candidate @ShainaNC. Diwali is going on, Lakshmi Puja is happening. In such a holy festival, responsible public representatives like MPs make such statements against women, which is completely wrong. @MumbaiPolice should take appropriate action as per law on the FIR lodged by Shaina NC,” she posted on X.

(With inputs from agencies)