Collapse of Shivaji Maharaj Statue Triggers Outcry in Maharashtra

A 35-foot Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Sindhudurg collapsed, prompting calls for a 100-foot replacement. Opposition leaders criticize the government's handling and infrastructure quality. An FIR has been filed against the contractor and consultant responsible for the statue.

The 35-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Sindhudurg collapsed on Monday, sparking significant controversy and criticism from various political leaders. Maharashtra Minister Deepak Kesarkar expressed sorrow over the collapse but proposed a 100-foot replacement, stating he would engage with the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister to prepare all necessary estimates.

Kesarkar mentioned, 'I haven't been there yet. But I have to say this statue was erected by the Navy to honor Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj as the first naval king. Though it's sad, good things can follow. There was public demand for a 100-foot statue, and I intend to discuss this with the CM and Deputy CM. If the statue collapsed, a taller one should replace it.' UBT Sena MLA Aditya Thackeray blamed the BJP's arrogance for the incident, linking it to election-focused and hasty construction.

Leader of Opposition and Congress MLA Vijay Wadettiwar called for a detailed investigation, accusing the government of neglecting Chhatrapati's values. Local police filed an FIR against contractor Jaydeep Apte and structural consultant Chetan Patil under multiple sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi and SP Chief Akhilesh Yadav criticized the BJP for poor infrastructure quality contributing to the collapse.

(With inputs from agencies.)