Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Dina Patil has landed in controversy after a video purportedly showing him abusing and threatening journalists went viral on social media, triggering sharp reactions from opposition leaders and media bodies.
Patil, who recently joined the Shiv Sena led by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, is heard in the viral video allegedly using abusive language and warning journalists against approaching him with questions. The remarks have sparked widespread criticism across the state's political spectrum.
Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Dina Patil draws flak after alleged abuse, threats against journalists #mumbai #shivsena pic.twitter.com/jaX3SCGO82
— Mumbai Live (@MumbaiLiveNews) June 25, 2026
Reacting to the incident, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray demanded action against the MP and accused defecting leaders of becoming disconnected from public issues. Congress leader Nana Patole also raised the matter in the Maharashtra Assembly.
Responding to the controversy, Shinde said he had spoken to Patil, who conveyed that he had no intention of insulting journalists and that his relations with the media had always been cordial. According to Shinde, Patil expressed regret if his words had hurt the sentiments of journalists.
Shinde, however, maintained that no public representative should make such remarks against journalists and said he had advised Patil to communicate with media persons and express his regret if any offensive words had been used.
The incident comes just days after Patil was among six MPs who switched allegiance from Shiv Sena (UBT) to the Shinde-led Shiv Sena, a move that has intensified political tensions in Maharashtra.
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