Shivaji statue collapse sparks political turmoil in Maharashtra

The collapse of a massive statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Maharashtra has ignited significant political unrest, particularly as elections approach. Shivaji, a revered 17th-century warrior king, is a symbol of pride for many in the state, making the incident particularly sensitive. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who inaugurated the statue, issued an apology, acknowledging the hurt feelings of Shivaji's devotees. This incident has provided opposition parties with a powerful platform to challenge the ruling coalition, which includes the BJP and factions of the Shiv Sena and NCP. In the wake of the statue's collapse, protests erupted across the state, with even members of the NCP participating in silent demonstrations. The opposition has called for the resignation of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, alleging corruption in the statue's construction. Shinde has attributed the collapse to strong winds, while state minister Ravindra Chavan indicated that the public works department had previously warned about rust issues in the statue's construction. The political ramifications of this incident are profound, as no party can afford to be seen as disrespecting Shivaji or the sentiments of the Maratha community. The opposition alliance, Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), has organized statewide protests, while the BJP has countered with its own demonstrations, accusing the MVA of politicizing the situation. This conflict highlights the ongoing tensions in Maharashtra's political landscape, particularly regarding issues of regional pride and governance. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on the accountability of those involved in the statue's construction and the broader implications for the ruling coalition as they navigate the upcoming elections. The incident serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of power and sentiment in Maharashtra's political arena.