Maharashtra CM Accelerates Efforts for Shivaji Maharaj Statue Reconstruction Amid Political Tensions

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stated the Maharashtra government is working urgently to rebuild Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's statue. Two committees are formed: one for reconstruction, one for investigation. Shinde urges against politicization. Opposition, including Uddhav Thackeray and Congress, criticize government's handling of the statue collapse.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced on Thursday that swift measures are being taken by the state government to reconstruct the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Two specialized committees have been formed, one to investigate the statue's collapse in Malvan and the other to oversee the reconstruction efforts. Shinde called on opposition parties to set aside political differences, emphasizing the collective duty to honor and respect the revered historical figure.

"We have formed committees; one will investigate the incident and recommend actions, while the other will expedite the construction of a grand statue of Shivaji Maharaj. We are working with urgency and require everyone's cooperation instead of politicization," stated Shinde. He highlighted that the joint committee involves various experts including Navy officials, IIT representatives, architects, engineers, and renowned sculptors.

The Defence Ministry also commented, revealing the establishment of a joint technical committee led by the Indian Navy and state government representatives to investigate the statue's damage. The statue, unveiled last December at Rajkot Fort, Sindhudurg during Navy Day celebrations, honors the Maratha Navy and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's maritime legacy. The Indian Navy reaffirmed its commitment to the statue's swift restoration.

However, the incident has sparked criticism from opposition leaders. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray and party member Sanjay Raut demanded a special investigation team led by a sitting High Court judge. Raut argued that an independent inquiry is necessary to ensure transparency and accountability. Congress leaders, including Prithviraj Chavan, also condemned the coalition government's handling of the incident.

Thackeray questioned the government's explanation for the statue's collapse due to strong winds, pointing out the absurdity of claims given its coastal location. He reiterated that the public deserves truthful answers and criticized the administration's response to the unfortunate event.

(With inputs from agencies.)