Controversy Erupts Over Collapse of Chhatrapati Shivaji's Statue in Sindhudurg

Maharashtra cabinet minister Deepak Kesarkar defended his remarks regarding the collapse of Chhatrapati Shivaji's statue, calling for a new 100-foot structure at the same site. The incident has sparked a political controversy, with opposition parties criticizing Kesarkar's comments and the government's handling of the affair.

Maharashtra cabinet minister Deepak Kesarkar on Wednesday defended his controversial remarks concerning the collapse of Chhatrapati Shivaji's statue and demanded the construction of a new 100-foot statue at the same location.

Amid backlash from the opposition, Kesarkar clarified that his comments were misconstrued. He emphasized the need for the new statue to honor Shivaji at Sindhudurg, which was once the headquarters of Shivaji's navy.

The original 35-foot statue, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 4 last year, collapsed on August 26, leading to a political storm. Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) called for the resignation of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Kesarkar's statement that 'something good might come out' of the incident further fueled the controversy. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray criticized Kesarkar, claiming the incident might lead to another tender-related scam.

(With inputs from agencies.)