Shivaji Statue Unveiled By PM In 2023 Collapses, Eknath Shinde Attributes Incident To Strong Winds

The recent collapse of the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Sindhudurg has sparked a flurry of reactions and controversies. Unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last December, the 35-foot statue at Rajkot Fort fell on Monday, attributed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde to strong winds and adverse weather conditions.

Senior officials are currently assessing the damage and the circumstances surrounding the incident. Shinde expressed disappointment, highlighting the emotional and cultural significance of the statue, and noted that the collapse was a result of natural factors rather than any fault in construction.

However, opposition parties have seized the opportunity to criticize the Maharashtra government. Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Vaibhav Naik and NCP (SP) state president Jayant Patil have alleged that the collapse was due to substandard construction and accused the government of neglecting quality control in favor of political showmanship. They are calling for a thorough investigation into the contractors and the overall handling of the project.

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Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has also weighed in, questioning the transparency and integrity of the contracting process and hinting at possible corruption. She has demanded accountability and a detailed inquiry into the responsibilities of those involved.

The incident has not only led to political fallout but also raises questions about the efficacy of oversight in public projects and the impact of weather-related events on such structures.