Prime Minister Narendra Modi has voiced strong disapproval and called for a formal apology in the wake of the recent collapse of a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in Maharashtra. The statue, which was under construction or installation at the time, fell and was damaged, causing significant outrage among local communities and beyond.
The incident occurred in the city of Kolhapur, where the statue was being erected as a tribute to the legendary Maratha king. Preliminary reports suggest that the collapse may have been due to structural issues or inadequate safety measures during the installation process. The local authorities are currently investigating the incident to determine the exact cause and to prevent such occurrences in the future.
Prime Minister Modi’s comments have sparked a broader discussion about the respect and proper handling of cultural and historical monuments. In his statement, he emphasized that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, a revered figure in Indian history, deserves utmost respect and that those responsible for the mishap should be held accountable.
The local government has promised a thorough investigation and assured that corrective measures will be taken. Meanwhile, there has been a wave of public demand for stricter regulations and oversight in the construction and installation of such significant statues.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges in managing and preserving cultural heritage, and underscores the need for meticulous planning and execution to honor historical figures appropriately.