A political and media uproar unfolded when Mumbai North-East MP, Sanjay Dina Patil, was captured on camera using offensive language and making threats towards journalists. This incident occurred shortly after his switch from the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. Patil, during a press interaction about his political move and rivalry with Uddhav Thackeray’s faction, became agitated and verbally attacked reporters, even making physical threats in the presence of police officers.
In the video, Patil can be heard warning journalists, “If you come back to me again, I will have you beaten up.” He further added, “Write whatever you want, record it, go and complain to the Commissioner. I am saying this right in front of the police.” This outburst comes on the heels of a previous controversial statement where he mentioned his family’s history of violence and issued menacing warnings to those who oppose him, causing a stir within the journalistic community and sparking political tensions.
The situation prompted Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde to intervene, clarifying that Patil’s outburst was not aimed at journalists but stemmed from his deep-seated animosity towards political adversaries, particularly in response to Sanjay Raut’s comments about rebel MPs. Shinde disclosed that he had advised Patil to express regret if his remarks offended the media. Additionally, Sanjay Shirsat, a senior leader from the Shinde faction, apologized on behalf of the party, characterizing the incident as an emotional outburst rather than a deliberate threat.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) faction strongly denounced Patil’s behavior, with Sanjay Raut urging the Police Commissioner to take legal action against the MP for his repeated use of violent and threatening language. Raut highlighted two alarming statements attributed to Patil, including a claim of past killings and a threat to use explosives against protesters. Various journalist associations have condemned Patil’s language, calling for an apology and appropriate action in line with regulations.
