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The recent collapse of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue at Rajkot Fort in Malvan has sparked controversy, with allegations of corruption swirling around the installation process. However, Maharashtra Cabinet Minister Deepak Kesarkar has vehemently denied these claims, asserting that the Indian Navy, responsible for the statue's construction, cannot be accused of any wrongdoing.
Kesarkar, addressing the media in Pune, emphasized the Navy's commitment to honoring Shivaji Maharaj, India's first naval king. He argued that the Navy, entrusted with safeguarding the country's coastline, was not a technical agency specializing in statue construction but was motivated by a desire to pay tribute to the historical figure. He dismissed the opposition's allegations of corruption as baseless, asserting that the Navy's integrity is beyond reproach.
The opposition, however, has seized upon the incident to target the state government, accusing it of corruption in the statue's installation. They have demanded a thorough investigation into the matter, highlighting the statue's collapse as evidence of negligence and potential financial irregularities. The 35-foot statue, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year, collapsed on August 26, causing embarrassment for the state government.
In response to the growing controversy, Modi, during his recent visit to the state, expressed regret for the incident. The state government, acknowledging the need for accountability, has established a committee to investigate the collapse. This committee, working in conjunction with the Indian Navy, aims to determine the cause of the incident and ensure that appropriate measures are taken to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Looking beyond the immediate investigation, the state government has also initiated plans for a larger memorial dedicated to Shivaji Maharaj in Sindhudurg. This memorial will be constructed under the supervision of renowned sculptors, incorporating safety protocols to prevent any future mishaps. The government is determined to ensure that the new memorial stands as a lasting tribute to the historical figure.
Amidst this controversy, the Shiv Sena, a key partner in the ruling alliance, has faced criticism from its ally, the NCP, over controversial remarks made by Sena cabinet minister Tanaji Sawant about the NCP. In response, Kesarkar urged all coalition partners to refrain from making inflammatory statements that could jeopardize the alliance's stability and its focus on development. He emphasized the importance of maintaining unity and avoiding distractions that could derail the government's agenda.