 |
|
The recent collapse of a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Maharashtra has sparked a political controversy. The 35-foot statue, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Navy Day last year, crumbled on Monday afternoon. This incident has led to accusations and counter-accusations between the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the opposition parties. The BJP, led by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has asserted that the statue's construction was overseen by the Navy and not the state government. Fadnavis further stated that the Navy might have overlooked crucial local factors such as high wind speeds and the quality of iron used, leading to the statue's deterioration. He also questioned whether the makers of the statue had adequately considered these factors before its creation.
The opposition parties, however, have seized the opportunity to criticize the BJP government, alleging negligence and mismanagement. They have pointed fingers at the government's responsibility in ensuring the statue's stability and safety. The opposition has also highlighted the irony of the statue's collapse, considering the importance of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Maharashtra's history and culture. The statue's collapse, they argue, is a reflection of the government's failure to uphold the legacy of the Maratha warrior king.
Amidst the political blame game, Fadnavis has assured that a larger statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj will be erected at the same site. He has also ordered an inquiry into the incident to determine the cause of the collapse and to hold those responsible accountable. However, the opposition remains skeptical of the government's intentions and demands a transparent and impartial investigation. The incident has exposed the political divisions within Maharashtra and has raised questions about the government's commitment to preserving the state's cultural heritage.