Uddhav Thackeray Criticizes PM Modi’s Apology
In Mumbai, Uddhav Thackeray, chief of Shiv Sena (UBT), harshly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He condemned Modi’s apology for the collapse of a 35-foot Chhatrapati Shivaji statue in Maharashtra. Thackeray claimed the apology was filled with arrogance. According to him, the people of Maharashtra have rejected it.
MVA’s Protest Against the Government
Thackeray addressed the crowd during the Maha Vikas Aghadi’s (MVA) “jode maro” protest. The protest was organized in response to the statue’s collapse. “Jode maro” translates to “hit with footwear,” highlighting the intensity of their protest. Thackeray drew a comparison between the statue’s collapse and recent incidents at the Ram Temple in Ayodhya and the new Parliament complex. He questioned the sincerity behind the Prime Minister’s apology.
“An Insult to Maharashtra’s Soul”
Uddhav Thackeray Criticizes PM Modi in a vocal way. He questioned, “For what was the PM apologizing? The statue he inaugurated eight months ago? The corruption involved?” He urged MVA members to unite against those insulting Shivaji Maharaj. “The statue’s collapse is an insult to Maharashtra’s soul,” Thackeray emphasized.
PM Modi’s Apology and BJP’s Defense
Prime Minister Modi had apologized for the statue’s collapse. He acknowledged the deep respect Maharashtra has for Shivaji Maharaj. “I bow my head at his feet and apologize to those hurt by the collapse,” Modi stated.
However, the BJP and its ally, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, criticized the Opposition’s reaction. They accused the MVA of politicizing the issue despite the Prime Minister’s apology. Thackeray responded, stating, “We are fighting for the state’s glory, not engaging in politics.”
MVA Leaders Unite in Protest
Top leaders of the INDIA bloc in Maharashtra joined the protest. Uddhav Thackeray, Sharad Pawar, and Nana Patole led the march from Hutatma Chowk to Gateway of India. The protest highlighted their unity against the ruling government. Nana Patole, the Maharashtra Congress chief, also criticized the current administration. He vowed never to let a “Shiv drohi” government return to power.
Eknath Shinde and Fadnavis Respond
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde hit back at the Opposition. He stated, “Shivaji Maharaj cannot be a political issue. This is about identity and faith.” Shinde called the statue’s collapse unfortunate but accused the Opposition of exploiting it for political gain.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also criticized the Opposition. He claimed that leaders from Congress and NCP have a history of insulting Shivaji Maharaj. “For more than 50 years, Congress and NCP leaders have insulted Shivaji Maharaj. Will they apologize?” Fadnavis asked.
The Collapsed Statue and Its Consequences
The Chhatrapati Shivaji statue in Sindhudurg was inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi just eight months ago. The project involved coordination between the Navy and the state government. After the collapse, police arrested the structural consultant and contractor. They face charges, including attempt to murder and culpable homicide.
This incident has intensified political rivalry in Maharashtra. With state elections approaching, the Shivaji statue’s collapse has become a focal point in the battle for votes. The controversy underscores the deep reverence for Shivaji Maharaj and the high-stakes political climate in Maharashtra.
