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The collapse of a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Malvan, Maharashtra, has sparked calls for an inquiry into alleged irregularities in the construction of temporary helipads erected for a visit by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last December. The Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has raised serious concerns about the tendering process, the rushed timeline, and the exorbitant cost associated with the helipads.
The Indian Express revealed anomalies in the Public Works Department's (PWD) tendering process, which saw the contract for the three helipads awarded to Accurate Infraproject for a total of Rs 2.03 crore. Work orders were issued either before tenders were floated or mere days before the Prime Minister's scheduled visit. The MVA leaders, including NCP (SP) MP Supriya Sule, Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly Vijay Wadettiwar, and NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar, have condemned the alleged irregularities and demanded a thorough, impartial investigation.
The MVA leaders have pointed to the rapid completion of the tendering process and construction within a three-day period, questioning how the PWD managed to achieve such speed in a project that cost Rs 2.03 crore. They also highlighted the fact that the helipads cost almost as much as the Shivaji statue itself, which was erected at a cost of Rs 2.44 crore. The issuance of backdated work orders further raises suspicions of irregularities and potential corruption.
This incident has not only brought into question the transparency and accountability of the state government but has also tarnished the image of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a revered historical figure in Maharashtra. The MVA leaders have expressed concern that the alleged irregularities undermine the respect and honor associated with the great Maratha warrior king.
The demand for an inquiry is likely to intensify political tensions in Maharashtra, with the MVA seeking to capitalize on the controversy to expose alleged corruption and hold the government accountable. The BJP-led state government will have to respond to the accusations and address the concerns raised by the MVA. The outcome of the inquiry, if conducted, will be keenly watched as it could have significant political ramifications in the state.