“Harsh but necessary": MLA Gaikwad on assault over hostel food, sparks debate

Furthermore, the Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) on Wednesday evening suspended the licence of the caterer operating the canteen. This action followed an inspection earlier that day, which revealed violations of food safety regulations.

Speaking to reporters in Mumbai on Thursday, Gaikwad claimed, "There were 200 to 400 complaints in the last four to five years, but the FDA did not act." He added, "FDA Minister Narhari Zirwal himself told me that even after he asked officials to take action, he did not receive reports for two to three months. The question arises – who all are involved, and what is the nexus?"

Meanwhile, the legislator from Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena faction acknowledged that his behaviour might have appeared inappropriate, but maintained that it ultimately served a broader public interest, leading to immidiate actions against the canteen worker. 

"The person I personally hit the day before yesterday was the manager, who has now been suspended because it was his fault," he asserted.

"He was playing with the lives of lakhs of people by supplying substandard food. The canteen serves 5,000 to 10,000 persons daily," Gaikwad insisted.

Moreover, referencing to his own health, Gaikwad mentioned he has suffered from stomach ailments for the past two decades, reported PTI.

"If I eat stale food, I suffer for 15 days. That is why I do not eat at eateries outside," he explained.

"What I was served was almost poisonous. It could have caused me severe health issues. I do not believe my reaction was wrong. I knew my actions were harsh, but because I reacted that way, action was finally taken against the canteen operator. It will help save the lives of lakhs of people who eat there," the MLA stressed.

He further stated that several warnings had been issued to the canteen operator previously, but no effective improvement was observed.

"My action brought about the change. What I did would help all the Marathi people," the Shiv Sena leader declared.

Moreover, responding to the criticism from opposition parties, Gaikwad said "I want to ask those who are criticising me – why are they siding with South Indians who were playing with your lives?" This comment refers to the South Indian origin of the canteen operator at the MLA hostel.

However, when questioned about demands for action against him, Gaikwad stated he has faced legal actions previously and is aware of the legal provisions, reported PTI. 

"What I did amounts to a non-cognisable offence. Such complaints usually do not attract serious legal punishment. I have already met the assembly speaker and will also speak to the deputy chief minister and the chief minister to present my side. I am ready to face any punishment," he affirmed.

While members of the ruling coalition largely refrained from justifying Gaikwad's actions, Amol Mitkari, MLC from Shiv Sena's ally NCP, stated that Gaikwad's act should be judged rationally.

"Nobody is defending Gaikwad's actions, but the root cause must be addressed. He did not cause a law and order problem. If he was served poor quality food after a long day's work, his outburst should be judged rationally," Mitkari commented.

Rohit Pawar, MLA from the opposition NCP (SP), however, expressed doubt that any strong action would be taken against Gaikwad.

"Gaikwad is part of the ruling alliance and close to a senior leader in his party. I don't think any decisive action will be taken against him," Mr. Pawar stated.

(With inputs from PTI)