Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 11: Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad has landed in controversy after a video showing him allegedly assaulting a canteen staffer at the Maharashtra legislature went viral, prompting Mumbai Police to take suo motu action.

The video, shot at the Akashvani MLAs' canteen, shows Gaikwad slapping and punching a staff member in a fit of rage, reportedly over the quality of food served. In the clip, Gaikwad is also seen forcing others to smell a packet of dal before turning his anger on the canteen contractor.

Following the outcry, Marine Drive police began proceedings to register a case, even in the absence of a formal complaint.

The incident has drawn sharp criticism from across the political spectrum. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the act, saying such behaviour from an elected representative sends a "wrong message" and directed police to act without delay.

Shiv Sena chief and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde also disapproved of Gaikwad's actions. “I told him what he did was wrong. He should have filed a complaint instead of reacting violently,” said Shinde.

Minister of State for Home Yogesh Kadam had earlier claimed that no action could be taken without a complaint, but the CM’s intervention has overridden that stance.

Meanwhile, the Maharashtra FDA suspended the licence of the caterer after food safety violations were found during an inspection, adding another twist to the controversy.