The controversy erupted after an audio clip went viral on social media in which Sanjay Gaikwad, a legislator from the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde, was purportedly heard using offensive language and issuing threats to Kolhapur-based publisher Prashant Ambi over a book on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
The dispute centres around the Marathi book ‘Shivaji Kon Hota’ (Who was Shivaji), written by Govind Pansare and first published in 1988. The book, published by Lokvangmay Griha, presents Shivaji as a secular and people-centric ruler rather than only a Hindu king, and has been widely read with multiple editions over the decades.
According to Ambi, Gaikwad called him and spoke for several minutes, objecting to the book’s title and its references to Shivaji Maharaj without honorifics. In his complaint to the police, Ambi alleged that the MLA used highly abusive language, issued death threats, and warned of physical harm, including statements about entering his home and assaulting him. He also claimed that references were made to Pansare, who was shot dead in Kolhapur in 2015, which added to the seriousness of the threat and created fear for his safety and that of his family.
Gaikwad acknowledged that the voice in the viral clip was his but claimed that the audio had been edited and distorted. He defended his reaction by stating that the book contained what he described as “disrespectful” references to Shivaji Maharaj and insisted that such material should not be circulated. He also alleged that the publisher had behaved arrogantly during the conversation.
Following the incident, Ambi filed a written complaint at the Rajarampuri police station in Kolhapur, seeking action under provisions related to criminal intimidation and abusive conduct, along with police protection due to perceived threats to his life. He stated that the incident caused significant mental distress and a sense of insecurity within his household.
The matter has triggered political reactions as well. The Indian National Congress criticised the MLA’s conduct, calling it open hooliganism, and urged Devendra Fadnavis to order an inquiry and ensure protection for the publisher. Party leader Harshwardhan Sapkal also condemned Gaikwad’s language, stating that such behaviour brings disrepute and is unbecoming of a public representative.
Gaikwad has previously been involved in multiple controversies, including making inflammatory remarks, publicly threatening political figures, and engaging in incidents that drew criticism for misconduct. This latest episode has intensified scrutiny over his conduct and raised concerns about the broader implications for public discourse, freedom of expression, and law and order.
