**Shiv Sena MLA Defends Assault on Canteen Contractor Over Food Quality**
In a controversial incident that has sparked widespread attention, Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad openly justified his violent confrontation with a canteen contractor in Mumbai. The altercation, which involved Gaikwad slapping and punching the contractor, was reportedly triggered by dissatisfaction with the quality of dal served at the MLAs’ residence. The incident gained traction after a video of the assault circulated online.
Gaikwad, representing Eknath Shinde’s faction of the Shiv Sena, expressed his frustration, stating, “If someone feeds me poison, do I worship them? Balasaheb (Bal Thackeray) didn’t teach us that. He taught us that if a person is ignorant, then he must be cracked down upon.” He maintained that his reaction was justified, emphasizing the need for accountability in food quality.
The MLA, who has been frequenting the Akashwani canteen for over three decades, claimed that his repeated requests for better food quality had been ignored. “I have been coming to Akashwani canteen for 30 years and have been staying here for 5.5 years. I have repeatedly requested that they serve good food. Eggs 15 days old, non-veg 15–20 days old, vegetables 2–4 days old. Nearly 5,000-10,000 people eat here, and everyone has the same complaint,” Gaikwad told reporters.
He recounted a troubling history of unsanitary conditions, mentioning past incidents where lizards and rats were found in the food. Gaikwad ordered food from the canteen late at night and became ill shortly after consuming it. “After having the first bite, I felt there was something wrong… I found it was stale food,” he explained, urging for improvements in food safety standards.
In the viral video, Gaikwad was heard asserting that he taught the contractor a lesson “in my own style.” He reiterated his commitment to addressing the issue, stating, “If they do not still listen, then I have my own way of making them understand.” He called for action to ensure that the health of the public is not compromised, highlighting the need for inspections in the kitchen.
Gaikwad plans to raise the matter in the ongoing Maharashtra legislative session, aiming to bring attention to the broader issue of food safety in government canteens.
**FAQ**
**What prompted Sanjay Gaikwad’s confrontation with the canteen contractor?**
Sanjay Gaikwad confronted the canteen contractor due to dissatisfaction with the quality of food served, particularly stale dal, which he claimed posed a health hazard.
