Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's Statue Collapse: Corruption Allegations and Political Fallout

Senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan criticized the Mahayuti government for corruption and pushing Maharashtra towards bankruptcy after the collapse of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s statue. Chavan accused the government of using inferior materials for the statue and highlighted declining per capita income and neglected agricultural growth. Maharashtra assembly elections are nearing.

Senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan has lambasted the Mahayuti government over the collapse of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's statue, calling it a stain on Maharashtra and indicative of government corruption.

Addressing the press following a Congress meeting, Chavan, the former chief minister, argued that the current government is driving Maharashtra towards financial ruin, emphasizing a steady decline in per capita income.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologized for the incident during a visit to Palghar, acknowledging the hurt caused by the statue's fall. The 35-foot statue, unveiled by Modi on December 4, 2023, collapsed on August 26, drawing allegations of substandard materials and construction practices overseen by inexperienced artists.

Chavan insisted that such negligence and corruption should be met with punishment. He also criticized the BJP-led state government for its impact on Maharashtra's agricultural and industrial sectors, which he claims have deteriorated under their rule.

As the state gears up for assembly elections in October-November, Chavan revealed that Congress is consulting like-minded organizations to shape their election agenda. He affirmed that the Congress remains committed to opposing the BJP's constitutional changes.

(With inputs from agencies.)