Sanjay Raut Seeks Action Against Rebel Sena-UBT MP Over Protestors Comment

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday sought police action against MP Sanjay Dina Patil, who recently joined the ruling Shiv Sena led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, over his alleged remarks about "throwing bombs" at protesters. Raut claimed that the comments amounted to criminal intimidation and reflected a dangerous attitude toward citizens exercising their democratic rights. In a letter addressed to Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti, the Rajya Sabha member alleged that Patil had threatened members of the public who were protesting against elected representatives who recently switched allegiance from the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) to the Shinde faction.

According to Raut, the remarks were made at a time when several defecting lawmakers were facing criticism from voters and party workers upset over the political developments in Maharashtra. He urged the police to examine the matter and take appropriate legal action if the statements were found to violate the law. Raut claimed that six Members of Parliament who recently left Shiv Sena (UBT) to join the ruling Shiv Sena have become the target of widespread public anger. He said many people across Maharashtra believe that the elected representatives have betrayed the trust of voters by changing political loyalties after being elected on a different party platform. As a result, protests have been taking place at various locations, with citizens demanding accountability from their representatives. Raut emphasized that peaceful protests and public demonstrations are constitutional rights and form an essential part of a democratic system.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader further alleged that Patil had not only spoken about using violence against protesters but had also warned people against confronting him. According to Raut, Patil reportedly stated that those planning to protest against him should first take out a life insurance policy. Such remarks, he argued, amounted to a direct threat against citizens and could create fear among those seeking to express dissent through lawful means. Raut described the comments as deeply troubling and said they should not be ignored by law enforcement authorities.

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Calling the alleged statements an example of "terrorism and criminal intent," Raut urged the Mumbai Police to investigate the matter thoroughly. He maintained that elected representatives must uphold democratic values and respect the rights of citizens, even when faced with criticism or opposition. Any language suggesting violence against protesters, he said, undermines public confidence in democratic institutions and risks escalating political tensions. He also stressed that leaders have a responsibility to maintain peace and avoid rhetoric that could encourage confrontation.

The controversy unfolds against the backdrop of ongoing political friction within Maharashtra's Shiv Sena movement. The split between the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction and the Eknath Shinde-led faction has continued to generate sharp political exchanges and legal battles since the party's division. Recent defections by MPs from Shiv Sena (UBT) to the ruling camp have further intensified tensions, drawing criticism from opposition leaders and supporters. While the ruling faction has defended the political realignments, opponents argue that voters deserve accountability from leaders who change sides after elections. The latest dispute involving Patil's alleged remarks is likely to add another chapter to the continuing political conflict in the state.

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