Maharashtra Leaders Address Shivaji Statue Collapse

The collapse of the 35-foot Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Sindhudurg has led to significant political fallout and public outrage in Maharashtra. Structural consultant Chetan Patil and a contractor have been arrested, while a joint technical committee led by the Indian Navy has been established to investigate the incident. The statue, unveiled hastily on December 4, 2023, during Navy Day celebrations, was criticized for poor construction quality. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar have apologized, with plans to erect a new, grander statue. Opposition parties have criticized the ruling government for negligence, demanding accountability and raising concerns over the haste and quality of the project. Amid the controversy, Maharashtra's Public Works Department has also come under scrutiny for irregularities in awarding contracts for helipad construction for the Prime Minister's visit.