Fri Nov 01 23:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Shiv Sena Leader Faces Backlash for “Imported Goods” Remark, Accused of Insulting Woman Candidate
**Mumbai:** A controversial statement by Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction) MLA Arvind Sawant has sparked outrage and legal action. Sawant referred to Shayna N.C., the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) candidate for the Mumbai Assembly elections, as “imported goods.” This remark, widely seen as derogatory towards women, has led to Shayna filing a police complaint against Sawant.
The incident occurred during a recent interview where Sawant, while discussing Shayna’s political affiliations, said, “Look at her situation. She has spent her entire life in the BJP and now she has joined another party. ‘Imported goods’ don’t work here, only original ones do.” The video of his statement went viral, leading to widespread criticism and demands for an apology.
Shayna has accused Sawant of disrespecting women and has filed a complaint with the Nagpada police. The police have registered a case under sections 79 and 356(2) of the Indian Penal Code and are investigating the matter.
Shayna has also demanded an apology from Sawant and has stated that she will be filing a complaint with the Election Commission. “He cannot respect a woman. I will complain to the Election Commission,” she said.
Adding to the controversy, Shayna met with MNS President Raj Thackeray on Friday. When questioned about the meeting, she clarified that it was a family visit and there were no political discussions.
Dr. Neelam Gorhe, Deputy Chairperson of the Legislative Council and a prominent leader of the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), has condemned Sawant’s statement, calling it an insult to women. She has demanded immediate action against Sawant by the Election Commission and urged him to apologize.
This incident highlights the escalating tensions between the two factions of the Shiv Sena ahead of the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections. The controversy is likely to continue as both parties escalate their campaigns and intensify their efforts to win over voters.
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