Mumbai | July 9, 2025 : A shocking video has surfaced from Maharashtra showing Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad physically assaulting a canteen operator over the quality of dal (lentils) served. The incident, which took place at a government guest house in Buldhana district, has sparked outrage and raised serious concerns about misuse of political power.

The video, now widely shared on social media, shows the MLA slapping and yelling at the canteen worker. Gaikwad was reportedly unhappy with the taste and quality of the dal served to him. He was heard shouting, “Yeh hamara Shiv Sena style hai” (This is our Shiv Sena style), clearly justifying the assault in the name of his political background.

When questioned later by reporters, Sanjay Gaikwad showed no remorse. “I don’t regret what I did. I am not a Gandhian,” he said. He further claimed that the food served was so bad that action had to be taken immediately. “I asked him politely first, but he didn't listen. So I had to do this. People are being served dirty food,” the MLA added.

Gaikwad also said that his behavior was a message to lazy or careless workers in government-run facilities. However, many people, including members from other political parties and civil society groups, have condemned the MLA’s actions, calling it an abuse of power and a clear case of assault.

The canteen worker, meanwhile, has reportedly not filed a police complaint. However, he told local reporters that he was deeply humiliated by the incident and never expected such treatment from an elected representative. “He didn’t even give me a chance to explain. He just hit me,” the man said.

Opposition leaders, including members from the Congress and NCP, demanded strict action against Gaikwad, saying such behavior has no place in a democracy. "Public servants should lead by example. If something is wrong, there are proper ways to handle it," said one Congress MLA.

The Maharashtra Human Rights Commission has also taken note of the incident and may seek a report from the state government. Legal experts say that Gaikwad could be charged with assault and misuse of authority, although no FIR had been registered at the time of writing this article.

This is not the first time Sanjay Gaikwad has made headlines for controversial statements or behavior. He was previously in the news for making harsh remarks against political opponents and had once suggested violence as a solution to political disagreements.

As the video continues to circulate online, citizens and netizens alike are expressing anger and disappointment over how elected leaders behave in public. Many are demanding a public apology and legal action.

While Sanjay Gaikwad remains unapologetic, the incident raises larger questions about accountability and the growing trend of public figures justifying violence in the name of politics.