Maharashtra Statue Collapse – Opposition Accused Of Communal Politics

While political parties continue to fight, criminal proceedings have been initiated against the sculptor and the structural auditor. An enquiry committee has also been formed to carry out a detailed investigation.

The collapse of a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has provided opposition parties the ammo to target the ruling administration. The scathing attack by the opposition continues even after Prime Minister Narendra Modi has apologized to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and all people who were impacted by the statue collapse. Maharashtra’s Chief Minister, Deputy CM as well as the Guardian Minister of Sindhudurg District have also expressed their apologies and regret.

Since the statue was constructed under the supervision of the Navy, they too have apologized for the incident. Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has assured that strict action will be taken against those responsible for the statue collapse. Shinde also said that a new grand statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj will be constructed at the same location in Rajkot.

While the government has taken all the necessary steps to tackle the issue, opposition parties continue with their criticism. Many people feel that the opposition’s response to the incident has been exaggerated. Some believe that using the incident to play communal politics is uncalled for. There are many citizens who feel that the level of criticism by the opposition parties has been unprecedented. Something like this was never seen in the history of the state of Maharashtra.

Opposition leaders visit the site of statue collapse

Several opposition leaders have visited the site of the statue collapse. Ironically, none of these leaders were present at the site when the statue was being inaugurated. Many people believe that while protests are okay, using the situation to create unrest and incite public sentiments needs to be avoided. Even residents of Sindhudurg, where the incident occurred, feel that the opposition’s actions do not feel right.

Alleged attempt to incite communal tension

While people of Maharashtra are known for fighting for real issues, the ongoing response by politicians to the statue collapse is something entirely new for the state. Caste based remarks such as calling Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis a descendant of the Peshwas does not bode well for the social fabric of the state. Sharad Pawar’s statement that Maharashtra could become like Manipur is being seen as an attempt to create unrest.

Glorification of Aurangzeb

Some opposition leaders speaking in favor of Aurangzeb is also something that has sparked outrage. It was Aurangzeb who had imprisoned Shivaji Maharaj. Aurangzeb had also carried out various atrocities on the people of Maharashtra. Critics are saying that people who are supporting the injustices done to Shivaji Maharaj are essentially betraying his legacy. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is known for uniting the people of Maharashtra. People feel that the opposition parties are using the statue collapse to divide the society and promote caste-based identities.

Allegations of promoting casteism

MNS Chief Raj Thackeray has alleged that some opposition parties have been playing casteism politics since their inception. Raj Thackeray has accused Sharad Pawar and his allies for creating the conflict between Brahmins and non-Brahmins. Many feel that Congress resorts to divisive politics to get votes. Opposition’s vicious attack over the statue collapse is being seen by many as a politically motivated move. Such tactics can have an adverse impact on the social structure of the state of Maharashtra.