Sanjay Raut, a Member of Parliament from the Shiv Sena (UBT), has recently targeted Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi, branding them as “Goonga Gudda,” which translates to “deaf doll.” This remark was made in light of the police’s actions on July 20 against students protesting at Jantar Mantar. Raut expressed his concerns during a press conference in New Delhi on August 5, wherein he sought accountability from Shah regarding the police response to the protests.

During the conference, Raut highlighted the ongoing political controversy stemming from previous comments made by the Maharashtra Congress regarding Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar. He stated, “I ask Amit Shah, ‘who gave orders for lathicharge, use of pellet guns at Jantar Mantar?’ But he is mum. This means he is ‘Goonga Gudda’.” Raut extended this analogy to Prime Minister Modi, suggesting that both leaders’ silence amidst ongoing issues was indicative of a failure to engage with public concerns.

Comments on Sunetra Pawar’s Accountability

Raut pointed out that Pawar had been silent during a recent press interaction when questioned about the law and order situation in Beed district. He clarified that his criticisms were not aimed personally at her, but rather at her responsibilities as a Deputy Chief Minister. He expressed that Pawar should be accountable for governance issues in her role.

The Shiv Sena MP remarked, “The ‘Goongi Gudiya’ comment regarding Sunetra Pawar… However, she remained quiet on it.” He expressed the view that if a male counterpart had been in her position, they would have similarly faced criticism for their lack of response. Raut believed that such frank comments were part of political discourse and should not be deemed “unparliamentary.” He reflected on how former politicians, including Indira Gandhi, managed criticisms effectively and urged current leaders to do the same.

Raut stated, “If there was a man instead of Sunetra Pawar, he would have been called a ‘Goonga Gudda.'” He believed that acknowledging and addressing such criticisms is a fundamental aspect of politics, and that gender should not exempt individuals from scrutiny.

Response from Opposition Leaders

In response to Raut’s statements, former Chief Minister of Maharashtra and Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan noted that making remarks against a sitting female Deputy Chief Minister could have been avoided. He emphasised the need to support women who engage actively in politics, highlighting that such language diminishes the political discourse.

Chavan remarked that journalists have the right to ask questions, and he called upon the Chief Minister and Home Minister to address the unsatisfactory law and order situation in Beed. He underscored the importance of maintaining a respectful dialogue in political discussions, especially regarding women in leadership roles.

Furthermore, he recalled how similar language had been used against Indira Gandhi years ago, yet she responded through her actions. “Sunetra Pawar is actively engaged in politics and holds the responsibility of a constitutional position in the state,” Chavan added, asserting that it is essential to conduct political conversations respectfully and constructively.

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