Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray has raised concerns about the recent collapse of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue at Rajkot Fort, questioning the BJP-led Mahayuti government’s handling of the situation. Thackeray criticised the state administration, accusing it of mishandling issues of women's safety and corruption.
Thackeray expressed his disbelief over the government’s explanation for the statue's collapse. He pointed out that despite the strong winds claimed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as the cause, the Rajya Bhavan, situated on the seashore, had not suffered similar damage. Thackeray questioned, "How could a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj fall due to strong winds, while other structures remained unaffected?"
The incident has become a political flashpoint. Prahar Janshakti Paksh leader Bacchu Kadu criticised the government for being disconnected from Shivaji Maharaj’s ideology, suggesting that the lack of attention to detail reflected poorly on the authorities.
Similarly, Swarajya’s Sambhaji Chhatrapati lamented that the statue’s poor quality was highlighted months before its collapse, indicating a failure in responsibility and accountability.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray also weighed in, accusing the BJP of corruption related to the statue. He posted on social media, denouncing the statue’s collapse as a manifestation of the BJP's alleged corruption.
The 35-foot statue, which was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Navy Day in December 2023, has sparked criticism from various quarters. Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole joined the chorus of criticism, attributing the incident to systemic corruption both at the Centre and in the state.
He claimed that the government’s actions insulted Shivaji Maharaj's legacy and urged for a change in leadership, calling the incident a major setback for Maharashtra.
Follow us
