New Delhi: Shiv Senas Shinde group MLA Sanjay Gaikwad faces mounting criticism following the circulation of a viral video depicting him wielding a police baton to assault a young man during the Shiv Jayanti procession on February 19 in Buldhana. The video has ignited widespread condemnation, highlighting concerns over Gaikwads alleged authoritarian conduct.Gaikwads controversial pastThis recent controversy adds to Gaikwads tumultuous track record. Previously, he faced allegations of land encroachment and stirred debate over wearing a tigers teeth around his neck, claiming to have hunted the animal decades ago. The emergence of this video compounds public resentment against his perceived abuse of power.Assault captured on cameraThe contentious footage captures Gaikwad purportedly instructing police officers to strike a young man during the Shiv Jayanti procession. When the police refrained, Gaikwad himself seized the baton and proceeded to physically assault the individual, intensifying public outcry against his actions.A video of Buldhana MLA Sanjay Gaikwad beating a young man with a stick during the Shiv Jayanti procession has gone viral on social media. The reason why the youth was beaten is still unclear.#Maharashtra #Buldhana #viralvideo #SanjayGaikwad #fight #shivjayanti pic.twitter.com/YX9G7Vlppr— Siraj Noorani (@sirajnoorani) March 2, 2024No formal complaints filedDespite the viral videos circulation, law enforcement authorities in Buldhana have yet to receive any formal complaints regarding the incident. However, Police Superintendent Sunil Kadasne affirmed that should complaints be lodged, they would conduct a thorough investigation and pursue appropriate legal measures.Opposition condemns Gaikwads aggressionOpposition leader Vijay Wadettiwar condemned Gaikwads purported assault, underscoring the urgency for accountability. Wadettiwar questioned the tolerance of such incidents and criticized the transformation of political discourse into violent confrontations. The opposition highlights Gaikwads status as an elected representative, demanding accountability for his actions.Responses from Gaikwads campIn response to the controversy, Bharat Gogawale, Spokesperson for the Shinde Group, refrained from immediate comment, citing the need to review the video before determining further action. Gogawale emphasized the importance of assessing the situation comprehensively before issuing a formal response.As public outcry mounts and scrutiny intensifies, the fate of Sanjay Gaikwad remains uncertain, with calls for accountability echoing across political divides. The viral video serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities entrusted to elected officials and the imperative of upholding ethical standards in public service.
