Mumbai: Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) MLA Sanjay Gaikwad has stirred a controversy after he allegedly assaulted a canteen contractor at the Akashvani MLA hostel over "substandard food".
Justifying his action, Gaikwad questioned whether people who repeatedly serve such poor-quality meals deserve any respect.
Gaikwad said he has been staying in Mumbai for over five years and usually has his food at the MLA hostel canteen. He recalled the incident, stating, “As usual, I ordered a meal of dal, rice, chapati, and vegetables. The moment I took the first bite, I felt nauseated, and by the second bite, I vomited.”
He further claimed that the dal had a foul smell and the appeared to be "at least three days old". "This is not the first time this has happened. I have faced this issue three-four times in the past. On those occasions, I calmly explained the matter to the canteen staff,” he said on Wednesday.
However, Gaikwad defended his aggressive behaviour, saying, “Despite repeated warnings, if such issues continue and if the person cannot understand polite instructions in Marathi or Hindi, then one must make them understand in a language they comprehend".
The incident has sparked debate over the MLA’s actions and the standards of food provided in government accommodations.
