MVA Protests Shivaji Statue Collapse in Mumbai

The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), consisting of the Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP factions, staged a 'Jode Maro' protest in Mumbai against the recent collapse of a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort. The demonstration, which drew significant participation from key opposition leaders, aimed to express outrage over what they called an insult to Maharashtra's pride, attributing blame to the ruling MahaYuti government for corruption and poor construction. The statue, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2023, collapsed on August 26, leading to widespread criticism and a political showdown in the lead-up to the upcoming Maharashtra Assembly elections. Despite police denying permission for the march, MVA leaders asserted their intention to proceed, declaring the statue's collapse a matter of deep emotional significance for the state. Prime Minister Modi offered an apology for the incident during a recent visit, which MVA leaders dismissed as politically motivated. The protests reflect a growing tension between the opposition and the ruling parties as the state prepares for elections.