Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s Statue Collapses in Maharashtra

A statue of the revered Maratha King Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last December at Rajkot fort in Maharashtra’s Sindhudurg district, has collapsed. The 35-feet statue fell around 1 pm on Monday, prompting senior police and district administration officials to assess the situation.

Officials are currently investigating the cause of the collapse, with recent heavy rains and strong winds in the area potentially contributing factors. The statue, designed by experts, was a collaborative effort between the state government and the Indian Navy.

Investigation Underway

An FIR has been lodged against two individuals involved in the statue’s construction. The Indian Navy has also dispatched a team to investigate the incident and to formulate a plan for repairs and restoration.

Political Reactions

The incident has sparked criticism from opposition parties, who allege negligence from the state government regarding the statue’s construction quality. Leaders like Aaditya Thackeray and Jayant Patil have expressed concern over the rushed efforts to unveil the statue, emphasizing that it reflects poorly on the government.

Government Response

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has acknowledged the unfortunate incident and has ordered a thorough investigation. He emphasized the statue’s significance as a tribute to Shivaji Maharaj and reassured that efforts will be made to reinstall it promptly.

As the state grapples with the aftermath of this collapse, the focus now shifts to understanding the reasons behind it and ensuring the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is upheld.