NEW DELHI: Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad on Friday expressed regret over his remarks, days after asking people not to attend the funerals of farmers who die by suicide. He had urged crop growers to support their families and not abandon them.Gaikwad claimed that he had not, in fact, mentioned farmers in his remarks and that he himself came from a farmer's family."My statement was about those who take drugs, ruin their households, and commit suicide....It was misinterpreted and created a controversy. Still, if farmers across Maharashtra and my senior leaders have been hurt, I humbly express my regret," he said.This comes as Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde is reportedly upset over Gaikwad's remarks and has proposed his suspension from the party.When asked about Shinde's decision, Gaikwad said, "No comments."Earlier on Tuesday, Gaikwad had said that people should not attend the funerals of farmers who die by suicide.If nobody attended these funerals and animals fed on the deceased person's body, it might make others contemplating suicide realise the consequences and stop them from taking the extreme step, the MLA…
Sena MLA makes shocking remark on farmers' suicide, later clarifies
In short
Facing widespread condemnation, Sanjay Gaikwad claimed his remarks were intended for individuals who abuse drugs and destroy their households rather than cultivators. The legislator stressed his own agricultural background while issuing an apology to party leaders and farmers throughout Maharashtra. Meanwhile, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has reportedly pushed for Gaikwad's suspension from the Shiv Sena following the provocative comments. Gaikwad declined to provide any comment regarding the potential disciplinary measures proposed by his party leadership.
Key points
- The Shiv Sena legislator expressed humble regrets after facing severe backlash for his in…: The Shiv Sena legislator expressed humble regrets after facing severe backlash for his insensitive remarks regarding suicide victims.
- Gaikwad defended himself by asserting his comments targeted substance abusers rather than…: Gaikwad defended himself by asserting his comments targeted substance abusers rather than members of the farming community.
- Disciplinary action remains pending within the Shiv Sena as party leadership considers su…: Disciplinary action remains pending within the Shiv Sena as party leadership considers suspending Gaikwad following the incident.