Facing intense criticism over his “imported maal” remark, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant has apologized, stating he never intended to offend anyone. “For the past day, there’s been a perception that I insulted a woman—something I have never done in my life. I am being targeted by misinterpreting my words, but if my statement hurt anyone’s feelings, I express regret,” Sawant said to the media.
Sawant’s controversial comment referred to Shaina NC as “imported maal,” suggesting, “She was with the BJP all her life, and now she’s with another party. Imported ‘maal’ doesn’t work here; only original ‘maal’ does.” His statement quickly sparked backlash, prompting opposition leaders to criticize him for what many viewed as a sexist remark.
Following the incident, Shaina NC filed a formal complaint at Nagpada Police Station. An FIR has been lodged against Sawant under Sections 79 and 356(2) for outraging the modesty of a woman, with both the Election Commission and Women’s Commission taking cognizance of the issue.
Shaina condemned Sawant’s remarks, calling them an example of “objectification and the outrage of a woman’s modesty.” She stated, “This is a fight for women’s respect. Objectification and disparaging women’s dignity is no trivial matter. The truth will be evident in the video, but this mentality reflects a troubling mindset.”