Modi Apologizes for Shivaji Statue Collapse

Prime Minister Narendra Modi apologized for the collapse of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj statue in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg, acknowledging the emotions of those who revere Shivaji Maharaj as a deity. The statue, which was unveiled by Modi last December, fell on August 26, sparking significant public outrage and political backlash. Opposition leaders, including Congress, have criticized the apology as insufficient and demanded the resignation of Maharashtra's Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, citing a failure to uphold the state's pride. Modi's apology was made during an event in Palghar, where he reiterated his devotion to Shivaji Maharaj and contrasted his actions with those of the opposition. The incident has led to calls for a thorough investigation and accountability from the officials and contractors involved in the statue's construction.