Sawant apologises for his 'Imported Maal' remark

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Arvind Sawant on Saturday apologised for his "imported maal" remark against Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena's Mumbadevi candidate Shaina NC and said that he was being deliberately targeted.

Speaking to media persons in Mumbai, Sawant said that he would never insult a woman, adding that his statements were "interpreted differently." "Some allegations have been made against me for the past few days. A complaint has been lodged against me in this regard. We will never insult women. An atmosphere is being created that I have insulted a woman; I have never done this in my life. One of my statements was interpreted differently. I apologise if my statement hurt anyone's feelings," a news agency quoted Sawant as saying.

"I am being deliberately targeted by giving a different meaning; I am sad about this but still, if my statement has hurt anyone's feelings, then I express regret. The respect of women in the country cannot be seen according to the party," he added.