Maharashtra Police Intensify Search for Missing Sculptor in Shivaji Statue Collapse Case

Sindhudurg police are on an extensive manhunt for sculptor Jaydeep Apte, responsible for a collapsed statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Apte, untraceable since August 26, faces charges of negligence. Authorities have issued a Look Out Circular to prevent his escape from the country. A political row has ensued following the incident.

Sindhudurg police have intensified efforts to locate Jaydeep Apte, the sculptor and contractor implicated in the collapse of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's statue at Rajkot fort. Multiple teams, equipped with technical support, are scouring areas such as Mumbai, Thane, Sindhudurg, and Kolhapur.

Authorities have been actively searching for the 24-year-old Apte since August 26, the day of the collapse, yet he remains untraceable. A Look Out Circular has been issued to prevent Apte from fleeing the country through any sea port, airport, or other exit points.

The statue, a 35-foot representation of Maratha warrior king, was unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Navy Day, December 4 of last year. Post-collapse, Apte and structural consultant Chetan Patil were booked for negligence and other offences. The situation has ignited a substantial political dispute ahead of Maharashtra's upcoming assembly elections.

(With inputs from agencies.)