Modi Apologizes for Shivaji Statue Collapse

The collapse of the 35-foot Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Sindhudurg district has ignited significant political controversy in Maharashtra. The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition, comprising Shiv Sena (UBT), NCP (SP), and Congress, organized a massive protest in Mumbai, accusing the ruling Mahayuti government of corruption and negligence. Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologized publicly, expressing deep reverence for Shivaji Maharaj and calling the incident unfortunate. However, opposition leaders, including Uddhav Thackeray and Sanjay Raut, criticized Modi's apology, labeling it as politically motivated. They demanded accountability and highlighted previous instances of alleged government failures. The Mumbai police have enhanced security in response to the protests, which have included symbolic 'jode maro' (shoe-throwing) demonstrations.