PM Modi Apologizes After Collapse of Shivaji Statue in Maharashtra
Image Source: NDTV
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently issued an apology after the collapse of a 35-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at Rajkot Fort in Sindhudurg, Maharashtra. The statue, which had been unveiled by the Prime Minister just eight months earlier, collapsed on August 26, 2023, causing significant controversy and backlash in the state. Shivaji Maharaj, the founder of the Maratha Empire and a revered figure in Maharashtra, is deeply respected, and any incident involving his legacy is a sensitive issue.
Apology and Response
Speaking at an event in Palghar, PM Modi expressed his regret over the incident, referring to Shivaji Maharaj as not just a historical figure but a “deity” for many. “Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is not just a name or a king. For us, he is our deity. Today, I bow my head at his feet and apologize to my god,” PM Modi stated. He also apologized to the people of Maharashtra who were upset by the statue’s collapse, emphasizing that their sentiments are of utmost importance.
The apology comes at a crucial time as the state prepares for the upcoming assembly elections. The incident has put the ruling Mahayuti government, a coalition led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde with support from the Ajit Pawar-led NCP and the BJP, in a difficult position. The opposition has seized the opportunity to criticize the government, while even within the coalition, there have been disagreements on how to handle the situation. The NCP, a partner of the Shinde government, has also voiced its discontent over the incident.
Political Repercussions and Development Projects
In his speech, PM Modi also took a jab at the opposition, accusing them of being unwilling to apologize for their own mistakes while repeatedly emphasizing historical figures like Veer Savarkar. He stressed that his government prioritizes respect for cultural icons and the sentiments of the people.
Adding to the political tensions, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had previously stated that he would not hesitate to apologize or even touch the feet of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj “100 times” if necessary, in response to the statue’s collapse. He attributed the collapse to the strong winds and heavy rainfall that had affected the region.
Amidst the controversy, PM Modi also focused on development, laying the foundation stone for the Vadhvan Harbour in Palghar, a significant project with an estimated cost of around Rs 76,000 crores. The harbour is expected to be one of the largest in the world in terms of depth and capacity. The Prime Minister highlighted that this project, along with other initiatives like the Dighi harbour, would bring considerable economic benefits to Maharashtra, including creating around 12 lakh job opportunities.
In addition to the harbour project, PM Modi inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for 218 fisheries projects worth around Rs 1,560 crores, underscoring the government’s commitment to the economic development of the state.
In summary, while PM Modi’s apology aimed to address the public outrage over the statue’s collapse, the incident has highlighted the complex political dynamics in Maharashtra ahead of the assembly elections. The government’s focus on development projects is also seen as an effort to offset the controversy and appeal to voters.
Team Profile
- News Writer
- Sanchita is currently pursuing her master's in journalism and mass communication. She has already completed a PG diploma in journalism and mass communication from Patna Women's College and her graduation from Berhampur University. With a strong desire to become a journalist, she is focused on learning and enhancing her skills to excel in her chosen career.
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