Shweta Tiwari Calls Out Abusive DMs, Directly Questions Raj Thackeray
Actor Shweta Tiwari has publicly addressed derogatory messages received on Instagram, openly questioning political leader Raj Thackeray regarding the online conduct of individuals identifying as his supporters.
What Happened
On Thursday, Shweta Tiwari took to Instagram Stories to bring attention to the issue of abusive language directed at women on social media platforms. The actor, who is currently appearing in the second season of The Traitors, stated that certain users identifying as Marathi and claiming to support Raj Thackeray sent her direct messages using derogatory slurs, including calling women “r****”.
Alongside sharing screenshots of the profiles responsible for the messages, Tiwari questioned how individuals appearing to come from educated and respectable backgrounds could direct such language at women of any age or profession. Reflecting on her upbringing, she pointed out that she has lived in Maharashtra all her life and that her father was raised in Mumbai, noting she was raised to believe Marathi culture holds deep respect and dignity for women.
Addressing Raj Thackeray directly, Tiwari asked: “So when I see people who proudly identify as Marathi maanus coming into women’s DMs and calling them r****, I genuinely have to ask: Is this what being a Marathi maanus has come to mean? Raj Thackeray, if people like this are your supporters, then I would genuinely like to know, do you believe this is acceptable behaviour?” She added that disagreements or personal dislikes do not justify abusive language against women, stating that respect should be given to all women.
Earlier on the same day, Tiwari had also raised a consumer concern on social media by tagging Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) head Tukaram Mundhe after finding a cockroach inside an Instamart delivery containing Red Bull. Mundhe has recently drawn attention for regulatory inspections of food businesses and quick-commerce operations across the state.
Key Highlights
- Shweta Tiwari posted screenshots on Instagram Stories displaying abusive direct messages sent to her.
- The messages came from accounts identifying as Marathi and claiming to be supporters of Raj Thackeray.
- Tiwari questioned Raj Thackeray on whether he considers such abusive online behavior acceptable.
- She highlighted her lifelong connection to Maharashtra and reiterated that Marathi values are rooted in respect for women.
- Earlier that day, she reported finding a cockroach in an Instamart order, appealing to Maharashtra FDA chief Tukaram Mundhe.
Why This Matters
The incident draws attention to the prevalence of online harassment and derogatory slurs directed at women on social media. It also highlights public figures calling for accountability when individuals use cultural identity or political associations while engaging in abusive online interactions.
What to Watch Next
It remains to be seen whether Raj Thackeray or his party representatives will respond to the questions raised by Shweta Tiwari regarding the conduct of users identifying as his supporters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Shweta Tiwari address Raj Thackeray on Instagram?
Shweta Tiwari questioned Raj Thackeray after receiving abusive direct messages on Instagram from users identifying as Marathi and stating they were his supporters, asking if he considers such behavior towards women acceptable.
What did Shweta Tiwari mention about her connection to Maharashtra?
Tiwari stated that she has lived in Maharashtra all her life and that her father grew up in Mumbai, emphasizing her belief that Marathi culture is defined by dignity and respect for women.
What other complaint did Shweta Tiwari make on the same day?
Tiwari tagged Maharashtra FDA head Tukaram Mundhe after finding a cockroach in a Red Bull order delivered via Instamart, appealing to authorities to examine the matter.
Source: Bollywood Hungama