MP Arvind Sawant referred to Shaina as "imported maal" in response to her decision to join the faction,now apologises

The controversy surrounding Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant's remarks on Shaina NC has sparked significant political debate. Sawant's comment, where he allegedly referred to Shaina as "imported maal," drew sharp criticism from Shaina, a prominent leader contesting the Mumbadevi assembly seat, and from other political figures. She condemned the remark, describing it as a reflection of a disrespectful mindset towards women. Despite his initial silence, Sawant later apologized, claiming his words were misinterpreted and that he had never insulted women in his 55 years of public life​

The issue quickly escalated, with Shaina challenging the Shiv Sena (UBT) on its stance towards women’s respect. She questioned whether the party, through its leaders like Sanjay Raut, would defend similar comments if they were directed at a woman from their own party or community. This led to further political rhetoric as Shaina emphasized the need for clarity in how women are treated across party lines, regardless of political allegiance. Meanwhile, some members of the opposition, like Congress's Amin Patel, were criticized for laughing off Sawant’s comment, which many found offensive​.

The controversy has drawn attention to the broader issues of gender respect in politics, especially as the state assembly elections approach. Shaina, who had once campaigned for Sawant in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, expressed disillusionment over being labeled in such derogatory terms despite her long-standing political ties and work in Mumbai​

In her response, Shaina, who has been a prominent political figure for over two decades, took offense to the comment, emphasizing the disrespect it represented toward women in politics. She stated, "Calling someone who is a professional and political worker for 20 years 'maal' shows the mentality of Shiv Sena-UBT," highlighting the patriarchal tone of the remark. Shaina, who is contesting the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, accused Sawant of displaying a misogynistic attitude and reducing her to a mere object rather than acknowledging her years of experience and leadership.

Sawant initially defended his comment, claiming it was not directed at Shaina but rather at the broader issue of political alliances. He explained that his words had been distorted and politicized ahead of the elections. However, facing mounting criticism and a legal case filed against him, Sawant later apologized for his remarks, asserting that he had never insulted a woman in his 55 years of public life​.

The incident has ignited a wider debate about the treatment of women in Indian politics, with Shaina's supporters and women’s rights groups rallying behind her. Her critics argue that her political affiliations and shifting loyalties do not justify such derogatory comments. Sawant's apology, however, has done little to quell the controversy, which continues to be a topic of heated discussions as the election approaches.