The Shiv Sena Mahila Sena (Women's Wing) on Thursday, 26 June submitted a memorandum to Mumbai Police Commissioner Deven Bharti, demanding the immediate registration of a criminal case against Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut. The complaint accuses Raut of repeated use of obscene language, verbal abuse, and provocative speeches that allegedly threaten women in public spaces.

Key Allegations Against Raut

The Mahila Sena alleged that Raut has 'stained the cultural fabric of Maharashtra' through sustained verbal misconduct and that he operates under the assumption that his political status places him above the law. The women's wing specifically cited audio clips that it claims capture Raut verbally abusing and threatening a woman over a phone call.

Shiv Sena Deputy Leader Sheetal Mhatre said Raut had publicly targeted several MPs who recently crossed over from the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction to join the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, allegedly driven by political malice. 'He consistently stoops to incredibly low levels to target women out of sheer spite and a desire for political vendetta,' Mhatre said.

FIR Demand and Legal Sections Cited

The Mahila Sena has formally demanded the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) and Raut's immediate arrest under Sections 79, 196, 351, 352, 353, and 356 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The leadership warned of an intense, 'Shiv Sena-style' protest if the police fail to act promptly.

Mhatre also flagged a recent social media post reportedly showing Raut alongside a firearm, urging the police to verify whether the MP holds a valid licensed weapon or is using such imagery to intimidate. She further alleged that Raut routinely hurls derogatory remarks at public officials, targets their families, and uses degrading rhetoric against women.

What Shiv Sena Spokespersons Said

Shiv Sena National Spokesperson Shaina NC alleged that Raut appears to have taken a 'contract' to decimate the remaining base of the UBT faction. She issued a warning that the Mahila Sena will not tolerate further disrespect toward the women of Maharashtra.

Notably, Mhatre's remarks included a pointed jibe at Raut's conduct, stating that the party has 'reserved a hospital bed for Raut at the Thane Mental Hospital post his arrest' — a remark that underscores the sharp political temperature surrounding the complaint.

Political Context

The complaint arrives amid the ongoing rivalry between the two Shiv Sena factions — the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, which is part of the ruling Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra, and the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), now in opposition. Sanjay Raut has been one of the most vocal critics of the Shinde faction since the 2022 split. This is not the first time Raut has faced legal complaints over his public statements; critics argue his combative style repeatedly invites such actions, while his supporters contend the complaints are politically motivated.

Whether Mumbai Police act on the memorandum or treat it as a political grievance remains to be seen. The Mahila Sena's threat of escalation suggests the pressure campaign is unlikely to end here.