Naval Scandal: Collapse of Shivaji Statue Sparks Political Turmoil

The Shivaji statue in Maharashtra’s Malvan, installed by the Indian Navy with state government funding, collapsed. A joint committee, including Navy officials and state representatives, will investigate. The controversy has incited political accusations of corruption against the state government, following the statue's role in celebrating maritime defense and the Maratha Navy legacy.

The Indian Navy on Thursday reported its involvement in the project of the Shivaji statue, which recently collapsed in Maharashtra's Malvan, in cooperation with state authorities who funded it.

A statement from the Navy affirmed their commitment to repair and restore the statue promptly. A joint technical committee comprising Navy officials, state representatives, and experts will investigate the incident.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde convened a meeting late Wednesday night with top state officials and Navy representatives. The statue, part of Navy Day events highlighting the Maratha Navy's legacy, was unveiled in Sindhudurg district but fell after nine months. The fallout has led to political accusations of corruption against the state government.

(With inputs from agencies.)