Shivaji Maharaj Statue Collapse Spurs FIR, Criticism

The collapse of a 35-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, has sparked significant controversy and criticism. The statue, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2023, fell after just eight months, with officials citing strong winds and rusted materials as contributing factors. Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis emphasized that the Indian Navy oversaw the statue's construction, not the state government. An FIR has been filed against contractor Jaydeep Apte and structural consultant Chetan Patil for poor construction quality and negligence. The opposition has accused the BJP-led government of corruption and hastily installing the statue for political gain. An investigation is ongoing, with the Navy and local authorities collaborating to determine the exact cause and plan for reconstruction.