Massive Protests Follow Shivaji Statue Collapse in Mumbai

The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) is organizing a significant protest in Mumbai in response to the collapse of a 35-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Sindhudurg, which occurred just eight months after its inauguration by Prime Minister Modi. The protest, dubbed 'jode maro' or 'hit with footwear', is set to begin at Hutatma Chowk and end at the Gateway of India, with heavy police presence and counter-marches planned by the ruling BJP. Prominent leaders from the INDIA bloc, including Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar, are expected to participate, condemning the government's handling of the incident and calling out alleged corruption. The collapse has sparked considerable political controversy, resulting in the arrest of the structural consultant and contractor under serious charges. Prime Minister Modi has publicly apologized, emphasizing the significance of Shivaji Maharaj as a cultural and spiritual figure. This incident has intensified political tensions in Maharashtra, highlighting the ongoing rivalry between the MVA and the BJP.