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The collapse of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Malvan, Maharashtra, has sparked widespread outrage and protests across the state. The incident, which occurred on August 26th, has been attributed to negligence and corruption, leading to calls for a thorough investigation and accountability from the authorities. Amidst the ongoing public outcry, a unique protest was organized by Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders in Pen township, Raigad, highlighting the gravity of the situation and the need for societal introspection.
Ravindranath Patil, a retired government teacher and Shiv Sena functionary, took center stage in this symbolic protest. In a powerful demonstration of remorse and responsibility, Patil rolled himself on a 250-meter stretch of road, seeking forgiveness for the incident. His act, dubbed “Aatmaklesh,” was a poignant expression of the collective guilt felt by citizens for allowing corruption to permeate such a significant symbol of national pride. The protest, which lasted for two hours, saw Patil joined by around 50 other individuals. He concluded his demonstration by performing 21 sit-ups in front of the Shivaji Maharaj statue, further emphasizing the gravity of the situation.
Patil's protest aimed to raise awareness about the insidious nature of corruption and its detrimental effects on society. He asserted that the statue collapse was a stark reminder of the consequences of allowing greed and power to overshadow ethical principles. He argued that voters, by electing corrupt leaders, are ultimately responsible for such incidents. He stated that his act of self-flagellation was an attempt to awaken the conscience of the people and encourage them to demand accountability from their elected representatives. The protest served as a stark reminder that corruption is not merely a political issue but a societal problem that demands the collective responsibility of all citizens.
Source: Statue Collapse: Shiv Sena-UBT Leaders Unique Protest over Statue Collapse in Pen Township, Raigad