Newly elected corporator Sahar Shaikh submits written apology to the Police

  • Case related to provocative statement

  • Clarifies no intention to hurt sentiments

Mumbra (Dist. Thane) – Sahar Shaikh, a newly elected corporator from the AIMIM (All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen), has submitted a written apology to the Police. She had made provocative remarks at a public rally held in Mumbra. Following complaints filed with the Police by BJP leader Kirit Somaiya, MLA Niranjan Davkhare, as well as the Bajrang Dal and the Vishwa Hindu Parishad, a Police enquiry was conducted. Thereafter, Sahar Shaikh submitted a written apology. The Police have informed the complainants of this in writing. After accepting the apology, the case has been officially recorded as closed.

Senior Police Inspector Anil Shinde informed Somaiya in writing that “if such statements are made again in the future, legal action will be taken against those concerned.”

What did Sahar Shaikh say in her apology?

She stated that the sentence she used at the rally in Mumbra was in reference to the party’s flag and symbol. She clarified that she had no intention of hurting anyone’s sentiments or disturbing social harmony. She said, “We live for the Tricolour and we will die for the Tricolour.” If my statement has hurt anyone’s feelings, I offer both a public and written apology.

 

Editorial Perspectives

  • Merely submitting an apology should not be considered the end of the matter. The administration should also investigate why such statements were made by an elected representative and what the underlying intent was. While freedom of expression exists in a democracy, there is no place for provocative statements.
  • Who will ensure that elected representatives are made aware of constitutional values as well as their social responsibilities?