Shamita Yadav, popularly known as ‘Ranting Gola,‘ a content creator and alleged social media influencer, has become embroiled in controversy after a video targeting Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Asim Azmi went viral. In the video, Yadav accused Azmi of ignoring critical issues in his Govandi constituency, sparking heated reactions online. Yadav has since released a clarification, asserting that the video was scripted and not meant for public dissemination.
What Was The Viral Video About?
The contentious video, which quickly spread across social media, features Yadav delivering a sharp critique of Azmi’s alleged inaction on issues such as drug-related crimes and environmental hazards. “Drug-related problems have been worsening for 15 years, and during this time, Abu Asim Azmi has remained a constant. He hasn’t even filed a single letter to police seeking drug investigations. If you can’t fulfill your responsibilities, step aside,” Yadav said in the video.
She also accused Azmi of complacency in tackling Govandi’s environmental challenges, saying, “Govandi has turned into a graveyard for biomedical waste. Smoke from SMS companies is choking residents, and most of Mumbai’s TB patients come from here. If you can’t resolve these issues, burn your shame along with the next batch of waste.”
In a final plea to voters, she urged, “This election, don’t vote for politicians. Vote for your safety and your family’s future.”
Yadav’s U-Turn
As the video drew widespread attention—garnering both support and criticism—Yadav released a statement claiming the video was never intended for public release. “The video that has gone viral was a trial recording based on a script provided to me. These are not my personal views, nor have I verified the information presented. It was not posted on any of my platforms,” she said, hinting that the clip may have been allegedly leaked without her consent.
This is liberal's darling, you-go-gal, more-pawa-to-u @therantinggola.
Paw paw ne paise bhi ni diye aur @abuasimazmi se pangey alag🤣🤌🏼 pic.twitter.com/Kw9z63NqcX
— The Hawk Eye (@thehawkeyex) November 20, 2024
Maha Polls
Govandi, a suburb of Mumbai, has long grappled with issues such as drug trafficking and pollution. The area’s high incidence of tuberculosis and its reputation as a biomedical waste dumping ground have made it a focal point of public health concerns.
Yadav’s video has reignited discussions on these issues, with critics accusing her of irresponsibility in releasing unverified claims. Azmi’s supporters have dismissed the video as a political ploy, while others see it as a bold critique of governance failures.
The controversy comes as Maharashtra voters head to the polls today, 20 November 2024 for the assembly elections. Voting is underway across 288 constituencies. Results are set to be announced on 23 November 2024.
The elections feature a face-off between the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, which includes the Shiv Sena and NCP, and the Opposition’s Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), comprising the Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (SP).
It was hilarious to watch Yadav make the U-turn especially after the allegedly leaked video went viral. It is noteworthy that Yadav has made several Hinduphobic comments in the past.
(With inputs from Asianet Newsable)
Subscribe to our channels on Telegram, WhatsApp, and Instagram and get the best stories of the day delivered to you personally.