AIMIM corporator apologises over ‘paint Mumbra green’ remark after backlash

Paint Mumbra green’ controversy ends with apology as police warn AIMIM corporator against repeat statements

January 24, 2026

Backlash forces AIMIM corporator Sahar Shaikh to apologise over controversial comment

Sahar Yunus Shaikh issues written apology at police station, pledges loyalty to tricolour

AIMIM corporator Sahar Yunus Shaikh has apologised and retracted her controversial “paint Mumbra green” remark following widespread backlash and police intervention. The 22-year-old leader submitted a written apology at the Mumbra police station, distancing herself from the statement and affirming her allegiance to the Indian national flag.

The controversy erupted after Shaikh’s public comments sparked sharp criticism across political lines, prompting the police to summon her twice for clarification. Senior Police Inspector Anil Shinde confirmed that the corporator has formally apologised.

“She has apologised for the statement made by her and provided a written apology. A warning has been issued, and any repetition will invite strict action,” Shinde said.

In an emotional statement to the police, Shaikh sought to counter allegations that her remark carried communal overtones. “I live and die for the tricolour,” she said, asserting that she had no intention of undermining India’s national identity.

However, the apology has not put an end to the political storm. Senior BJP leader Kirit Somaiya described the incident as part of a broader and deliberate strategy. While acknowledging Shaikh’s age, Somaiya alleged that the statement reflected what he termed a larger “vote jihad” conspiracy.

“There is a calculated attempt to test such narratives in different areas, including Mumbai. We will not allow this to succeed,” Somaiya said, directly targeting AIMIM’s political approach.

Police officials have accepted the apology for now, but maintained that any future provocation would result in firm legal action.

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