Silent Protests Across Maharashtra Over Shivaji Maharaj Statue Collapse

The NCP, led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, will stage silent protests across Maharashtra following the collapse of a Shivaji Maharaj statue in Sindhudurg. They demand a stronger and larger statue, amid political ramifications and public outrage. Ajit Pawar has promised strict action against those responsible.

The NCP, led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, will stage silent protests across Maharashtra on Thursday following the collapse of a statue of Shivaji Maharaj at a fort in Sindhudurg district.

The party demands the installation of a stronger and larger statue of the 17th-century king at the same spot, a functionary said.

This move is significant as the NCP is one of the three constituents in the Mahayuti government, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, amid potential political ramifications and public outrage over the statue’s collapse. Earlier, Ajit Pawar apologized to the people of Maharashtra and assured action against those responsible, whether officials or contractors.

NCP office-bearers and workers will gather at Shivaji Maharaj statues in respective talukas and districts for a silent protest starting at 11 AM on Thursday. They will submit a list of demands to tehsildars or district collectors, a party functionary said.

'Those responsible for the poor-quality work leading to the collapse should face strict punishment. Shivaji Maharaj is regarded as the father of the country’s navy due to his significant contributions,' he added.

The 35-foot-tall statue collapsed on August 26, months after being unveiled by PM Modi. The police have booked the contractor after the state Public Works Department (PWD) cited poor construction quality.