In a recent incident sparking debate, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant has come under fire for making a controversial comment about Shaina NC, a former BJP leader now representing the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction in the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. Sawant referred to Shaina NC as “imported maal” while addressing reporters, sparking strong reactions across the political spectrum.
Sawant’s comment has been widely criticised as both sexist and disrespectful. In response, Shaina NC did not hold back, calling out Sawant’s remarks as an affront to women in politics and society at large.
She questioned the silence of Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders Sanjay Raut and Uddhav Thackeray, highlighting that they had not spoken up against Sawant's words. Shaina NC also noted that Mumbadevi MLA, who was present during Sawant’s statement, appeared to be laughing in a video clip that circulated online, further intensifying public backlash.
Sawant’s remarks went beyond just Shaina NC. He stated that “imported goods are not accepted here” and that only “original goods” are valued, seeming to dismiss Shaina NC’s capabilities and her place in Maharashtra politics. Shaina NC, a well-known political figure, criticised Sawant's words as offensive, emphasising that such language reflects a troubling mindset.
“Does he view every woman in Mumbadevi as ‘maal’? His words reveal an attitude of disrespect toward women,” she stated, adding that the public would respond to this by making him “behaal.”
Her response has been widely shared, resonating with many who see this as a stand against sexism. BJP leader Ravi Shankar Prasad also condemned Sawant’s remarks, calling them inappropriate and expressing his disappointment. Prasad highlighted that such language has no place in political discourse and should not be directed at any woman, especially one engaged in public service.
Shaina NC, who was formerly aligned with the BJP, was a surprising addition to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena’s candidate list for Mumbai’s Mumbadevi Assembly seat.
Though originally associated with the BJP ticket, she recently transitioned to the Shiv Sena as election preparations intensified. The upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections will take place in a single phase on November 20, with results expected on November 23.
This incident has sparked discussions on how women in politics are perceived and treated. Shaina NC’s strong response reflects a larger issue that goes beyond party lines, aiming to address how women candidates are spoken about and respected within the political landscape. The controversy has also raised questions about accountability within parties, as some leaders in the Shiv Sena (UBT) have remained silent on the matter.
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