Controversy over Shivaji Maharaj Statue Collapse Sparks Political Uproar

The Congress accused the Maharashtra government of spending only Rs 1.5 crore on the Shivaji Maharaj statue's construction while Rs 236 crore was allocated. Party leaders Nana Patole and Ramesh Chennithala condemned the government for mishandling funds and failing to maintain law and order. The statue's collapse has ignited political tensions.

The Congress has accused the Maharashtra government of misappropriating funds for the construction of the Shivaji Maharaj statue, which recently collapsed in Sindhudurg. According to Congress sources, only Rs 1.5 crore was spent, despite Rs 236 crore being allocated for the project.

Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole criticized Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and other leaders for accusing the Opposition of politicizing the issue. Ramesh Chennithala, the AICC in-charge for Maharashtra, highlighted a rise in crimes against women and children as evidence of deteriorating law and order under the Mahayuti government.

Patole emphasized that the government's focus on scams and money collection has led to neglect of public welfare. He countered CM Shinde's allegations by stating that the opposition's concern over the statue collapse and the Badlapur incident transcends political boundaries.

(With inputs from agencies.)