Political Storm Over Shivaji Statue Collapse in Maharashtra

The collapse of a 35-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg has ignited a political controversy. The sculptor had earlier submitted a six-foot clay model for approval, which was granted by the state Directorate of Arts. The incident has led to arrests and calls for revised guidelines.

The sudden collapse of a 35-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, has sparked a heated political debate. The statue, which was approved by the state Directorate of Arts and unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last December, fell on Monday.

Opposition parties slammed the Eknath Shinde-led government, leading to police action against the sculptor Jaydeep Apte and structural consultant Chetan Patil. The sculptor had followed procedure, previously submitting a six-foot clay model as required by state guidelines.

Officials argued that the statue's approval was thorough, with experts ensuring its adherence to the approved scale model. In light of the incident, the Directorate of Arts is now urging the government to update guidelines to mandate final approval for completed statues.

(With inputs from agencies.)