Mumbai: Bollywood actor Saif Ali Khan was attacked with a knife at his Bandra residence early this morning, causing a stir across Mumbai. The shocking incident has reignited debates about the state of law and order in Maharashtra, with opposition leaders criticizing the BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP-led state government.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the media, asserting that Mumbai remains the safest megacity in the country despite occasional incidents. “Some incidents do occur, and they must be taken seriously, but branding Mumbai as unsafe based on isolated events is inappropriate. We will take measures to ensure the city remains secure,” he stated.
In contrast, Delhi’s former Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal criticized the government, questioning its ability to maintain safety. “If a high-profile actor like Saif Ali Khan is attacked at home, what hope do ordinary citizens have? The state and central governments have failed to provide good governance or security,” Kejriwal remarked.
Shiv Sena UBT leader Aaditya Thackeray also expressed concern, calling the attack “shocking.” In a tweet, he said, “This incident highlights the absolute shambles law and order is in Maharashtra. High-profile crimes in Bandra, like this attack, show the government’s failure to curb crime and maintain safety.”
The Congress party joined the criticism, with MP Varsha Gaikwad condemning the state of law and order. Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole called the incident an example of “gangster raj” flourishing under the BJP government. “Incidents like these are a challenge to law enforcement and proof of the government’s inefficiency,” Patole said.
Citing previous incidents, including the shooting outside Salman Khan’s home and the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique, opposition leaders accused the state government of being inactive in tackling organized crime.
Priyanka Chaturvedi Rajya Sabha MP from the Shiv Sena UBT echoed these concerns. “This attack on Saif Ali Khan is a deliberate attempt to spread fear in Mumbai, reminiscent of the 1990s. It’s deeply concerning that such incidents are happening repeatedly in Bandra, targeting prominent individuals,” she said.
Meanwhile, Saif Ali Khan is reported to be stable and recovering from the attack. Police have launched an investigation, but the incident has left a mark on Mumbai’s image as a safe city.
