Maharashtra’s political landscape has once again been rocked by a wave of controversy, as a recent comment made by Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant has drawn sharp criticism from all quarters. The remark, labeled as blatantly sexist, prompted Shiv Sena candidate Shaina Chudasama Munot from the Mumbadevi Assembly Constituency to file an official police complaint, igniting a public debate on sexism in politics and the broader cultural implications of unchecked rhetoric among public figures.
The incident unfolded during a press briefing. Sawant, known for his blinkered nature and partisan fervor, made a comment that many deemed cheeky and pejorative towards women, sparking immediate condemnation on social media and from political circles. The fallout has raised questions about the boundaries of political discourse and the systemic issues facing women in public and political spaces.
During an otherwise routine interaction with reporters in Mumbai, Sawant, speaking in the context of ongoing political rivalries and alliances, made an off-the-cuff statement that many interpreted as reducing women’s contributions to mere gender-based stereotypes. The statement’s content was swiftly circulated on digital platforms, triggering widespread outrage.
Shaina, a noted fashion designer, philanthropist, and long-time BJP spokesperson, was among the first to react. Known for advocating women’s rights and civic responsibility, she voiced her disapproval, stating, “This is not just an insult to me but to every woman who has fought for space in a predominantly male political arena.” Her decision to file a formal complaint was backed by various women’s rights organizations and prominent social figures, who rallied behind her call for accountability.
The backlash was not confined to mere tweets and hashtags. Protests erupted across Mumbai, with demonstrators carrying signs reading “Respect Women, Respect Politics” and chanting for justice. Activists underscored the need for stringent measures against public officials who promote or condone sexist behavior. “This is about setting a precedent,” said Swati Rane, a Lawyer and women’s rights activist, at a protest outside Shivaji Park. “If we let this slide, we reinforce a culture where women are constantly undermined.”
Sawant has refused to apologize for his offensive jibe at Shaina. In an exclusive interview with News Trajectory, Sawant claimed that he never took Shaina’s name directly and that she was being provoked to lodge a police complaint against him.
“She (Shaina Chudasama Munot) is trying to defame me now. I have never uttered a word that would tarnish a woman’s dignity. In my 55 years of political life, I have always respected women. How come she suddenly felt offended after two days? I have not mentioned her name anywhere,” Sawant stated defensively.
“This is not just an insult to me but to every woman who has fought for space in a predominantly male political arena”
Shiv Sena leader Shaina Chudasama Munot
The controversy started when Sawant, a senior leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), made a deprecating remark about Shaina, calling her ‘imported maal’ during a media interaction. His words were in response to questions about Shaina’s move from BJP to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction and her candidature in the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections.
The comment drew significant backlash, with many calling it deeply sexist. The remark sparked widespread criticism, with many condemning it as highly sexist. A viral video clip of the incident showed Sawant making the derogatory comment as Shaina moved from the BJP to the Shinde Sena faction. She has been nominated to represent the Mumbadevi Assembly Constituency in the upcoming elections.
Sawant dismissed the criticisms, claiming the ruling ‘Mahayuti’ alliance was trying to foster a false narrative against him. “A minister from her party is facing rape charges, and just last week, a young woman complained of character assassination by another party leader and was assaulted,” Sawant pointed out, attempting to deflect attention.
According to Sawant, his comment was not meant to disrespect Shaina but merely to emphasize that she was an outsider in the Mumbadevi constituency compared to Amin Patel, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) candidate. “They are trying to twist my words. Instigating her to complain is just another political move by the BJP. Why should I apologize?” Sawant retorted defiantly.
The viral video of October 28 showed Sawant speaking dismissively of Shaina’s candidacy. “She has spent her life in the BJP, and now she comes here… Humare yahan imported maal nahi chalta (Imported material does not work here). Only original ‘maal’ works here. We have the original,” he said, creasing up on his remarks.
Amid the growing controversy, Shaina lodged a complaint against Sawant at Nagpada police station. Speaking with News Trajectory, Shaina responded passionately, “This reflects the mentality of Arvind Sawant and his party. Does he consider every woman in Mumbadevi as just ‘maal’? His words show a complete lack of respect for women… Regardless of whether I pursue action against him or not, the people will teach him a lesson in the upcoming elections.”
Shaina continued, emphasizing that Sawant’s remarks were not just a personal attack but also indicative of a broader issue. “On one side, we have Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde’s Ladki Behan Yojana and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiatives like Ujjwala and Mudra schemes, aiming at empowering women. On the other side, we have Sawant from the Mahavinash Aghadi making derogatory comments about me as ‘imported maal,’” she expressed, visibly hurt but determined.
In response to the derogatory remark, Shaina formally demanded an apology from Sawant. She boldly declared, “You (Sawant) will have to apologize. The people will certainly ensure the Shiv Sena (UBT) party faces consequences in the elections on November 20.”
Taking the fight to social media, Shaina posted in Hindi, “Mahila hoon, maal nahi” (I am a woman, not goods/material), reinforcing her stance against such degrading language and rallying support for women’s dignity.
Shaina NC is set to face Congress candidate Amin Patel in the upcoming Mumbadevi Assembly election, and this incident has only brought more spotlight to the battle ahead. As the elections approach, it remains to be seen how the public reacts to such blatant misogyny and if they stand up for respect, equality, and progress.
While the Shiv Sena (UBT) initially remained silent, pressure mounted as allies and opposition members weighed in. The party’s hesitance to address the issue quickly attracted criticism, painting it as complacent in the face of blatant sexism. Political analysts suggest that the party’s response—or lack thereof—could impact its reputation, especially among urban and younger voters who increasingly prioritize progressive values.
In a time when Indian society is striving to break free from entrenched patriarchal norms, incidents like these bring to the forefront the stark reality of gender inequality in our politics. This is not just about a comment; it’s about the culture that allows such comments to be made without fear of repercussion.
The formal complaint filed by Shaina NC with the Mumbai Police adds a layer of seriousness to the unfolding saga. While India has laws that criminalize defamatory and offensive speech, the practical enforcement of these laws against politicians can be fraught with challenges. Public figures like Shaina taking such legal action is rare and symbolically significant, underscoring the growing impatience with merely performative outrage and the push for concrete legal consequences.
Shaina’s complaint was reportedly filed under sections related to promoting enmity and insulting women’s modesty.
Legal analysts have highlighted potential outcomes, referencing previous instances where politicians faced comparable accusations and differing results depending on the political context and individuals involved. Nonetheless, with increasing public and media scrutiny, this case could establish an important precedent for how similar matters are addressed moving forward.
Support for Shaina’s move has poured in from various sectors. Celebrities, social workers, and ordinary citizens have taken to social media and public forums to commend her bravery. Simultaneously, voices from within the political spectrum expressed divergent views. While the BJP, Shaina’s party, has fully supported her stance, rival parties accused them of politicizing the issue for electoral gain. Despite such claims, the overwhelming public response suggests that this is not just politics—it’s personal for many.
This incident reflects deeper, systemic issues. Gender-based prejudice in Indian politics is neither new nor confined to any one party or ideology. The political arena, long dominated by men, often leaves women vulnerable to remarks that undermine their qualifications and contributions. Activists emphasize that while individual cases bring attention to the issue, the real victory lies in changing the culture that permits such behavior.
As the controversy unfolds, the focus remains on what steps the Shiv Sena (UBT) will take to address the issue. Public apologies, if they come, may not be enough for those demanding tangible consequences. Meanwhile, the BJP, leveraging Shaina’s actions, is expected to amplify calls for gender sensitivity and justice, potentially using the incident as a rallying point in forthcoming electoral strategies.
In the broader context, this moment serves as a wake-up call—a reminder that progress in gender equality within politics is often two steps forward, one step back. But as more voices join the chorus for change, there is hope that future generations of female politicians will face a more equitable environment where such remarks are met with outrage and swift, systemic change.
The sexist comment by the Shiv Sena (UBT) MP has sparked an emotional, multifaceted response across India. With Shaina taking the issue beyond rhetoric and into the legal domain, the country watches closely, aware that the handling of this case could mark a turning point in how sexism is addressed in Indian politics. Ultimately, the outcry is about more than just one remark—it’s about defining the standards of respect, dignity, and equality that every woman in the nation deserves.
