Statue Defacement Stirs Political Emotions in Mumbai

The statue of Meenatai Thackeray at Shivaji Park in Mumbai was defaced with oil paint by unidentified individuals, sparking outrage and a police investigation. As Shiv Sena members address the emotional impact, political figures urge calm, highlighting the defacement's potentially divisive motivations.

The statue of Meenatai Thackeray, wife of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray, was vandalized with oil paint at Shivaji Park, leading to significant outrage among party workers and prompting a police probe. The incident, discovered early Wednesday morning, has sparked political and emotional tensions.

The Mumbai police have launched an investigation with eight teams assigned to uncover those responsible. CCTV footage is being reviewed as an FIR has been filed against unknown individuals under Section 298 of the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita, citing religious and emotional insult.

The incident has united Shiv Sena factions, led by Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, hinting at potential reconciliation as they condemned the act. Meanwhile, state officials have promised stringent action against those involved, terming the desecration an issue of deep emotional and political significance.

(With inputs from agencies.)