BJP Hits Out at Sanjay Raut Over Remarks on Sunetra Pawar

Mumbai, August 5: Maharashtra BJP Chief Spokesperson Navnath Ban on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut for defending Congress’ remarks describing Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar as a “silent doll.” Addressing a press conference at the BJP state office, Ban alleged that Raut had supported an insulting comment against a woman instead of condemning it.

Ban questioned Raut’s stand by referring to past controversies involving criticism of former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, actor Kangana Ranaut, businessman Mohit Kamboj, and journalist Nikhil Wagle. He alleged that Shiv Sena (UBT) had reacted differently in those cases and accused the party of adopting double standards on freedom of expression.

The BJP spokesperson also defended Sunetra Pawar, saying she remains actively engaged in resolving public grievances alongside Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. He further criticised Shiv Sena (UBT) over its ideological position, claiming the party had moved away from the principles of Hindutva espoused by Balasaheb Thackeray.

Ban also referred to Sanjay Raut’s past remarks about women, alleging that the Rajya Sabha MP had himself used objectionable language on several occasions. He said political discourse should maintain dignity and accused Raut of repeatedly using abusive language in public interactions with the media.