Criticizing the Eknath Shinde government in Maharashtra over the recent collapse of a 35-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray stated today that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's apology regarding the incident reflected arrogance, asserting that the people of the state have rejected it.
Speaking at the Maha Vikas Aghadi's "jode maro" protest—translated as "hit with footwear"—Thackeray drew a comparison between the statue's collapse and issues related to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and the new Parliament complex.
"Did you notice the arrogance in the Prime Minister's apology? It was indicative of arrogance," he remarked. "What was the PM apologizing for? For the statue he inaugurated eight months ago? For the corruption involved? The MVA must unite to counter the forces that have disrespected Shivaji Maharaj. The statue's collapse is an affront to the spirit of Maharashtra."
PM Modi had previously apologized to Shivaji's followers for the statue's collapse, which has escalated into a significant political controversy ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections in Maharashtra. "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is more than just a name or a king; he is our deity. Today, I bow my head in reverence and apologize to my deity, as well as to the people affected by this incident," Modi stated on Friday.
In response, the BJP and its ally, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, criticized the Opposition for politicizing the situation despite the Prime Minister's apology. Thackeray countered by saying, "The BJP claims we are engaging in politics, but we are advocating for the dignity of our state. We have gathered at the Gateway of India to express our discontent with the Mahayuti government."
Protest march
Key leaders from the INDIA bloc in Maharashtra, including Uddhav Thackeray, Sharad Pawar, and Nana Patole, participated in the protest march that began at Hutatma Chowk and concluded at the Gateway of India. Patole, the Maharashtra Congress chief, described the statue's collapse as a manifestation of corruption and an insult to all followers of Shivaji. "We have sought Shivaji's forgiveness for allowing such a 'Shiv drohi' government to assume power. We pledge to ensure it does not happen again," he added.
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde criticized the Opposition, asserting that Shivaji should not be politicized. "This is a matter of identity and faith for us. The incident was unfortunate, but the opposition is exploiting it for political gain. In Karnataka, two JCBs were used to dismantle a statue of Shivaji Maharaj, and those responsible should face consequences. Instead of addressing that, the MVA is protesting here, but the people of Maharashtra are perceptive and will respond in the elections," he stated.
Opposition is politicizing the issue: Fadnavis
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also accused the Opposition of politicizing the issue, recalling that leaders from Congress and NCP have historically disrespected Shivaji Maharaj. "For over 50 years, they have insulted him. Indira Gandhi never acknowledged Shivaji Maharaj from the Red Fort—will the Congress apologize? While PM Modi has expressed regret, the Maha Vikas Aghadi is using this issue for political maneuvering as the elections near."
Broken the hearts of people: Khera
Meanwhile, Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera said on Sunday that the collapse of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's statue in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district has broken the hearts of people in the country who draw inspiration from the legendary warrior king. Addressing a press conference here, Khera accused Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis of spreading fake narratives over the incident.
The statue in Sindhudurg was inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi just eight months ago, with the project managed by the Navy in collaboration with the state government. Authorities have arrested the structural consultant and contractor involved in the project, charging them with offenses related to attempted murder, culpable homicide, and actions endangering the safety of others.
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