Arvind Sawant apologises for remark against Shaina, says ‘has never insulted any woman in life’

Shiv Sena MP apologizes for insulting remark towards rival candidate, denies wrongdoing, claims political motives behind controversy.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant apologised on Saturday (November 2, 2024) for his alleged insulting remark targeted at rival Shiv Sena's Assembly election candidate Shaina N. C., a day after a case was registered against him in this connection.

Talking to reporters in Mumbai, Mr. Sawant maintained that he has never insulted any woman in his life and added that a controversy was created for political reasons ahead of the Assembly polls.

"I have always been in the forefront of giving women their due respect. My remarks were distorted and I was deliberately targeted. This hurt me. Still if my comments hurt anybody's sentiments, I regret it and apologise for the same. In my 55 years of public life, I have never insulted women," the Member of Parliament (MP) from the Mumbai South Lok Sabha constituency said.

He asked what action was taken when other political leaders earlier called women leaders as "Jersey cow" and "Surpankha".

"Were women honoured through such comments?...A State Minister made derogatory remarks against Supriya Sule. Was any action taken?" he asked.

“The controversy regarding my remarks was raised for political reasons,” he said.

"I had not named anyone. I feel sad that an attempt was made to tarnish my image. The comment was made on October 29 and it was remembered on November 1," Mr. Sawant said.