Opposition Stages ‘Banian Towel’ Protest Against Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad

Speedy Summary

• Incident: Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad was captured on video slapping and punching an MLA hostel canteen employee in Mumbai over being served stale food.
• Protest: Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) legislators staged a “banian towel” protest outside the Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan on July 16, 2025, to condemn mr.Gaikwad’s actions and alleged rising “goonda raj” under the ruling alliance.
• Details of Protest: Participants included MVA leaders like Ambadas Danve (Shiv Sena UBT) and Jitendra Awhad (NCP SP). They wore banians and towels as symbolic attire while chanting slogans such as “We Condemn The Chaddi Baniyan Gang.”
• reactions: Leader of Opposition Ambadas Danve criticized Mr. Gaikwad’s behavior as indicative of government support for such acts. Both government and opposition members condemned the assault following viral dissemination of the video.

indian Opinion Analysis

This incident involving Mr. Sanjay gaikwad raises questions about conduct expected from public representatives in India’s political landscape. The visuals depicting aggressive behavior toward service staff have sparked widespread criticism across party lines, pointing to potential broader concerns regarding abuse of power by elected officials. Symbolic protests such as the “banian towel” exhibition reflect growing frustration among opposition parties with perceived impunity within governance structures.

While responses from both ruling coalition members and opposition leaders show unanimous disapproval of physical violence, allegations suggesting tacit governmental backing add layers to intra-political tensions in Maharashtra-a state frequently enough at the center stage for national debates over political accountability. Such incidents can erode public trust if left unchecked; they underline a need for consistent ethical standards across India’s various legislatures.Read more: The Hindu – Original Source