Sattari locals seek actor's apology over alleged derogatory remarks

In protest, a large number of citizens from various parts of Sattari gathered and marched to the Valpoi Police Station. The protesters demanded that authorities register a complaint against Naik for allegedly insulting the region and its people.

A memorandum was submitted to Police Inspector Vijay Shirodkar, urging immediate legal action. Protesters warned that Naik must visit Valpoi and issue a public apology by February 28. They cautioned that failure to do so would lead to intensified agitation.

The issue gained further momentum after a video of the alleged remarks circulated widely on social media, drawing sharp criticism from citizens. Following a public appeal, residents assembled in large numbers on Wednesday afternoon to express their anger and press for accountability.

Protesters stated that insulting or defaming a particular region or its people is punishable under Indian law and insisted that appropriate legal action be taken.

At a subsequent press conference, community leaders reiterated their demand for a public apology in Valpoi. They also announced their opposition to staging Naik’s theatrical productions in Sattari taluka, warning that any attempt to organise his performances would be prevented.

Speakers emphasised that theatre is meant to promote awareness and unity, and described the alleged remarks as an affront not only to the residents of Sattari but also to the larger theatre community.

Several local representatives participated in the protest, including Valpoi Municipal Chairperson Prasanna Gawas, councillors Vasyuddin Sayyed, Sahazeen Shaikh, Sarfaraz Sayyed, and Shaikh Faizal, Zilla Panchayat member Namdev Chari, Nilesh Parwar, sarpanches Amit Shirodkar and Shivdas Madkar, and former Zilla Panchayat member Sagun Wadkar.